Tempers flare a bit as Werth hit by pitch

NEW YORK -- Did Mets reliever Frank Francisco have something against Nationals outfielder Jayson Werth? In the eighth inning of the Nationals 7-2 victory on Thursday, Werth was hit in the back by Francisco on a 3-0 count.

Werth was clearly not happy, and catcher Anthony Recker and home plate umpire Jim Reynolds prevented Werth from going to the mound. Later, both Werth and Bryce Harper tried to take out shortstop Ruben Tejada, who was trying turn two double plays hit by Harper and Ian Desmond, respectively.

"It's a good thing we don't see him again," manager Davey Johnson said of Francisco.

Werth declined to comment, but Francisco said he did not try to hit Werth on purpose.

"It was 3-0. Obviously I can't locate my pitches," Francisco said. "He can say whatever he wants. I was trying to locate my pitches and obviously I was all over the place. I haven't hit a guy in two years, bro."