Zimmermann begins contract year in superb pitching matchup (with lineups)

By Josh Land

Nationals

April 08, 2015, 11:40am

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Right-hander Jordan Zimmermann returns to the mound at Nationals Park for the first time since last year's spectacular performance - but disappointing result - in the second game of the National League Division Series. Tonight's start against the Mets could be his last season debut in a Nationals uniform, as he's in the final year in his contract.

It doesn't get any easier for the Nats offense tonight when the Mets send reigning NL Rookie of the Year Jacob deGrom to the hill in the second game of the season-opening series.

deGrom gave up just one run and four hits with two walks and four strikeouts the last time the Nats faced him on March 28. The only run he surrendered came on a titanic blast off the bat of right fielder Bryce Harper.

Harper's solo homer on Monday was also the only run to cross the plate for the Nats against the Mets and righty Bartolo Colon.

By the way, Mets manager Terry Collins has deGrom batting eighth tonight, while dropping shortstop Wilmer Flores to the last spot in his lineup.

For the Mets

RF Curtis Granderson
3B David Wright
1B Lucas Duda
LF Michael Cuddyer
2B Daniel Murphy
CF Juan Lagares
C Travis d'Arnaud
RHP Jacob deGrom
SS Wilmer Flores

For the Nationals

CF Michael A. Taylor
3B Yunel Escobar
RF Bryce Harper
1B Ryan Zimmerman
C Wilson Ramos
SS Ian Desmond
2B Dan Uggla
LF Tyler Moore
RHP Jordan Zimmermann