It's been more than 10 years since the Washington Nationals franchise has been swept in its first two series of the season. 

Kenshin Kawakami pitched six effective innings to win his major league debut, leading the Atlanta Braves to a 5-3 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday night. 

Kenshin Kawakami overcame some early jitters to put together an impressive major league debut Saturday night. 

The Nationals' attempts to upgrade their roster didn't slow down after general manager Jim Bowden resigned on March 1. 

The Nationals' attempts to upgrade their roster didn't slow down after general manager Jim Bowden resigned on March 1. 

--LHP Ron Villone signed a minor-league contract with the Nationals and will report to Class AAA Syracuse. 

At this point, the Nationals just want to win a ballgame, somehow, some way. 

--LHP Ron Villone signed a minor-league contract with the Nationals and will report to Class AAA Syracuse. 

At this point, the Nationals just want to win a ballgame, somehow, some way. 

Kenshin Kawakami is set to become the first Japanese player to take the field for the Atlanta Braves. 

Kenshin Kawakami is set to become the first Japanese player to take the field for the Atlanta Braves. 

Kelly Johnson decided six hours was long enough for the Atlanta Braves' home opener. 

Kelly Johnson decided six hours was long enough for the Atlanta Braves' home opener. 

President Barack Obama won't throw the ceremonial first pitch before theWashingtonNationals' home opener Monday. 

Giants 7,Brewers 1