The Nationals collect 11 extra base hits, a record since moving to Washington as they beat the Rockies 12-5. A number of players suffering through poor seasons produced big games. Ryan Zimmerman, Mike Morse, and Ian Desmond have all been out machines this season. Zimmerman knocked out three hits, Morse and Desmond four each, seven of those for extra bases. Ryan and Mike homered and doubled, while Desmond hit three doubles. Rookie Tyler Moore drove in three with a home run and singled, and he’s taken up some slack as Bryce Harper fell into a bit of a slump. Zimmerman is six for 13 with two doubles and a home run since a cortisone shot relieved some pain.

If the Nationals can get their veteran hitters to come around, they’ll make life much easier for their excellent pitching staff. It will also be easier to defend their 3 1/2 game lead in the AL East. They have a ways to go, as only Desmond of the three raised his OBP above .300 with the big night.