New Nats outfielder Matt den Dekker suits up vs. old team (with lineups)

VIERA, Fla. - Less than a day after being traded by the Mets, outfielder Matt den Dekker is in uniform against his former team. den Dekker isn't in the Nationals' starting lineup, but he does figure to get an at-bat or two and play in the field.

"It's been a whirlwind of emotions and excitement to be over here," den Dekker said. "It's a great opportunity. I'm excited for it."

den Dekker hit .256 with a homer, four doubles, a triple and seven RBIs in 22 Grapefruit League games with the Mets. He was asked if he felt the timing of the trade was a bit bizarre.

"Yeah, it is, because we're playing the Mets today," den Dekker said. "It's a little strange. I mean, it's part of the game and you've got to realize you're probably not going to stick with the same team the whole time. I guess it's just the relationships you create throughout the years and the friends you make. But I'm sure I'll see those guys down the line. I'm happy to have some new teammates. Obviously, great tradition here with what they've done the last few years, so I'm excited for that."

Infielder Yunel Escobar is making his first start at third base for the Nats this spring as the team attempts to fill the void left by starter Anthony Rendon.

Left-hander Gio Gonzalez heads to the mound for his fifth start of the exhibition season. He has looked exceptional in his past few outings, continually reinforcing that his left shoulder is feeling fantastic. He has 13 strikeouts in 13 2/3 innings this spring.

For the Mets
2B Ruben Tejada
SS Wilmer Flores
RF John Mayberry Jr.
1B Lucas Duda
C Travis d'Arnaud
LF Eric Campbell
CF Kirk Nieuwenhuis
3B Danny Muno
LHP Jon Niese

For the Nationals
CF Michael A. Taylor
3B Yunel Escobar
RF Bryce Harper
1B Ryan Zimmerman
SS Ian Desmond
LF Tyler Moore
C Jose Lobaton
2B Danny Espinosa
LHP Gio Gonzalez