About This Section
The National League East is the Nationals' proving ground. Here we follow key divisional matchups, standings shifts, and how Washington stacks up against the Mets, Phillies, Braves, and Marlins. From tight pitching duels to slugfests that shake up the race, this is where the season's narrative unfolds.
Divisional Archive
Maya Steady, Gee Whiz
Yunesky Maya shook off a rocky first inning — in which Mets first baseman Ike Davis hit one of the longest home runs in Nationals Park's short history — and settled in through the fifth. But the early damage held, and the Nats fell 4–1 to New York.
Melee In Miami
A heated series against the Marlins that saw tempers flare and the Nationals beaten down in South Florida. Ben Goessling covered the fallout as the club looked to regroup.
Lannan Masters St. Louis
John Lannan delivered a commanding outing against the Cardinals, keeping St. Louis hitters off balance and giving the Nationals a statement win against a perennial NL Central power.
Birds Of Prey vs. Crippled Sparrows
A colorful look at a lopsided matchup, with the Nationals playing the role of underdog against a superior opponent in divisional play.
Doc Outduels Jason
Roy Halladay of the Phillies got the better of Jason Marquis in a classic pitcher's duel, underscoring the gap between the division's elite arms and the Nationals' rotation at the time.
Back In The Win Column
The Nationals snapped a skid with a much-needed victory, getting contributions up and down the lineup to climb back toward respectability in the NL East standings.
Fish Wrap
A roundup of the latest news and notes surrounding the Florida Marlins, one of the Nationals' chief rivals in the division.
NL East Rivals
| Team | Notable |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia Phillies | Perennial contenders led by Roy Halladay on the mound. |
| New York Mets | Frequent foil; Ike Davis haunted Nats pitching in 2010. |
| Atlanta Braves | Consistent threat with strong pitching and disciplined approach. |
| Florida Marlins | Volatile rival; the 2010 melee in Miami remains a flashpoint. |