Bryce’s 1st career leadoff HR sets tone in win

After having success batting Bryce Harper in the leadoff spot on Tuesday, the Nationals decided to try it again for Wednesday night’s game against the Pirates. Harper promptly responded, swatting his first career leadoff home run, which set the pace for another big night for the Nats’ offense in a 9-3 victory at Nationals Park, their fourth win in a row. Matt Adams homered for the third time in two games, and Stephen Strasburg struck out 11 over seven strong innings of work. Ivan Nova struggled for the Bucs, allowing eight runs (five earned) on 11 hits over 4 2/3 frames.