Some of the Nationals' September call-ups don't bring much intrigue to the roster because they all were on the team earlier in the season. These players include infielder Kory Casto, outfielder Roger Bernadina and shortstop Alberto Gonzalez.
But the other additions are worth watching. The three pitchers they called up include 21-year-old Shairon Martis, who figures to compete for a starting spot next year, and Mike Hinckley and Levale Speigner, both of whom might be getting their last chances to prove they can pitch in the majors. Hinckley was the team's top pitching prospect in 2005, but was dismayed when he didn't reach the majors out of spring training and struggled with shoulder injuries. He moved to the bullpen this season and posted a 3.16 ERA at Class AAA Columbus (Ohio). Speigner was briefly a member of the Nationals' starting rotation in 2007, and has a 1.82 ERA in the minors this year upon moving to the bullpen.
"These guys are guys that are either going to contribute to this club next year, or we're going to find out that they're not going to be part of it," manager Manny Acta said.
NATIONALS 7, PHILLIES 4: The Nationals took a 6-0 lead after four innings, scoring four runs in a fourth inning powered by Ryan Zimmerman's 10th homer of the year, a two-run shot to center field.
Tim Redding took a no-hitter into the sixth inning but left without recording a quality start. He was pulled after 5 2/3 innings, his pitch count racing up to 106 when he walked Jason Werth. Charlie Manning and Marco Estrada followed Redding, combining for two walks and a hit batter.
After Philadelphia cut the lead to 6-3, the Nationals added a run in the seventh.
The seven-game winning streak is the franchise's second-longest since coming to Washington. Redding tied his career high with 10 wins.
Play FOX Fantasy Football Today >
