The Beltway Series got off to a fine start with a pitcher's duel between Washington and Baltimore. The good news for the Nationals was the return of John Patterson. He went six inning, allowing just one earned run. Unfortunately, he also allowed an unearned run, and that was enough to give the Orioles a 2-1 victory.

Rodrigo Lopez did everything you want from a starter. He pitched seven innings, struck out seven and walked none. He's been walking a batter every three inning this season (which is fine). Without Nick Johnson in the lineup for the Nationals, however, there's not a lot of on-base on the team. Lopez took advantage of that.

Soriano took an 0 for 4. His batting averages are steadily declining.