Desmond delivers best game of young season

By Bill Ladson

April 11, 2013

WASHINGTON -- Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond had his best game of the season Wednesday, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored, two doubles and a triple in a 5-2 victory against the White Sox. He saw his batting average climb from .222 from to .290.

Desmond said his success at the plate was a result of right-hander Jordan Zimmermann pitching quickly in his seven innings on the mound.

"It's starts with Jordan and he was working quickly, getting quick outs, getting us back in the dugout," Desmond said. "The other guys around here were hitting, too. It wasn't like I was the only one. Hitting the barrel is contagious."

Desmond also admired the work of left fielder Bryce Harper, who went 2-for-4, including his fourth home run of the season.

"He plays with tremendous energy," Desmond said. "He is definitely an electric ballplayer. Having him in D.C. is going to be great for the city. He is definitely entertaining, that's for sure."

Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog, All Nats All the time. He also could be found on Twitter @WashingNats.