WASHINGTON -- The Bryce Harper leadoff-hitter experiment continues to produce spectacular results for the Nationals, who continued to roll in Friday's 7-3 victory over the Phillies, their sixth consecutive win.
Batting first has jump-started Harper, who launched a home run in his first two at-bats. Matt Adams is raking from the No. 3 spot in the lineup where he hammered his fourth home run in four games. Wilmer Difo has been an effective No. 9 hitter, frequently getting on base to set up a rally. Left-hander Gio Gonzalez continued his strong start to the season, pitching around a 39-minute rain delay, with five scoreless innings to help continue this season-high winning streak.