WASHINGTON -- The Nationals ambushed Twins right-hander Kyle Gibson from the outset Friday night, sending nine batters to the plate in a four-run first inning, as they cruised to an 8-4 victory. Catcher Jose Lobaton collected a pair of hits, including his third career triple, and drove in three runs, while left fielder Jayson Werth robbed a home run in left field before later hitting a solo homer of his own.
The Twins were put in a hole right away with Gibson's early struggles. The right-hander surrendered seven earned runs on seven hits and two walks in three innings.