WASHINGTON — Pete Orr picked up his first RBI in more than 15 months, slapping a pinch-hit, two-run single into left field in the seventh inning Saturday night to put the Washington Nationals ahead to stay in a 10-6 win over the Cincinnati Reds.
”If you don't think you can do it, you shouldn't be here, that's for sure,“ said Orr, who increased his RBI output to a grand total of 20 in 399 career at-bats over four big-league seasons. ”You have to believe in yourself, first of all. It was a fun situation to be in, and I'm happy I got the opportunity.“
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Orr's single capped a four-run inning and gave the Nationals something they haven't had since June — a two-game winning streak at home. Washington had dropped nine straight overall before beating the Reds on Friday; now they'll be going for the series sweep on Sunday.
The Nationals fell behind 5-2 in the second inning and rallied while the Reds unraveled. Cincinnati committed three errors, and the bullpen allowed seven runs over 22⁄3 innings.
For the second straight night, Washington's new build-for-the-future double-play combination — youngsters Emilio Bonifacio and Alberto Gonzalez — provided a spark. The speedy Bonifacio had a double, his first career triple and also reached on an error. Gonzalez went 3-for-5 with a double and scored two runs.
”These two guys have brought a big-time level of energy,“ said Nationals Manager Manny Acta. ”Right now just by having a lot of guys like that, you just expect that type of energy, and why not? These guys are the youngest team in the big leagues right now, and we shouldn't be lacking any type of energy.“
Ronnie Belliard added a pinch-hit, two-run homer, Lastings Milledge also went deep, and Lafayette graduate Austin Kearns went 3-for-5.
Mike Lincoln (1-3), who entered with a 19-inning scoreless streak, allowed four runs in the seventh while retiring only one batter to get the loss. The Reds have lost seven of eight.
Josh Fogg pitched 51⁄3 innings for the Reds, allowing three runs and six hits. He struggled early but settled down after a visit from Manager Dusty Baker following back-to-back walks in the third.
Notes
■ Reds outfielder Jerry Hairston Jr. sat out with a sore right hamstring. Hairston, who came off the 15-day disabled list Friday after missing time with a hamstring strain, is expected to miss Sunday's game.
■ Reds right-hander Aaron Harang, on the 15-day DL with a strained right forearm, will make a rehab start on Monday for Triple-A Louisville.
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