GB&U: Wow. What Else Can You Say?

RESULT: Nats lose 8-7 to Marlins. Losing streak at 5 games.

GOOD: Collin Balestar. The rookie starter took a no-hitter into the sixth, and his line was impressive: 6.2 IP, 1 ER, 4 hits, 3 BBs, 5 Ks.

BAD: The Line-up. Manny decided to go with an almost completely rookie line-up, save for Zim, Langerhans and I guess Milledge doesn't count anymore either. The rooks built a lead that should have held up though, leading 6-1 entering the bottom of the 8th inning.

UGLY: The Aforementioned Eighth Inning. The Nats have had some ugly innings this year to be sure, but tonight probably took the cake. Four different pitchers gave up 7 runs (6 earned) on 7 hits and 4 walks, including back-to-back walks to start the inning by Saul Rivera and Manning's walk of Paul LoDuca on 5 pitches. Then, Hanrahan threw one away when no one covered first base on a bunt hit. The very definition of ugly.

NEXT GAME: Tomorrow night the Nats host the Mets at 7:10 pm. John Lannan (8-13) faces Pedro Martinez (5-4). Come out and boo the Mets with me. Seriously, I know it's football season, but if you're reading this, make the effort to come out tomorrow night. I'll be in Section 131, Row SS right on the aisle with three empty seats. First round's on me.