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Kotsay helps Padres avoid sweep

Apr 27, 2012 - 6:42 AM San Diego, CA (Sports Network) - Pinch-hitter Mark Kotsay delivered with a two-run double in the bottom of the eighth inning, and the San Diego Padres avoided a three-game sweep with a 2-1 win over the Washington Nationals.

Washington reliever Tyler Clippard (1-2) struck out Nick Hundley to escape a bases-loaded jam in the seventh, but the right-hander couldn't protect a one- lead in the next frame.

Orlando Hudson drew a one-out walk and Cameron Maybin followed with a bunt single before Kotsay sent Clippard's offering to the gap in right-center.

"That's one of those games where a veteran, experienced hitter came up and had a good at-bat against a very talented relief pitcher," said San Diego manager Bud Black.

Nationals skipper Davey Johnson stood by his decision to stick with Clippard.

"I like my chances with Clippard out there," he said.

Huston Street pitched around a two-out single in the ninth to earn his second save of the season.

Andrew Cashner (1-1) picked up the win in relief of Edinson Volquez who limited the Nationals to three hits, walked one and struck out seven in seven innings of work. His lone blemish was a home run by Jayson Werth with one out in the seventh.

Washington starter Edwin Jackson scattered six hits, walked three and fanned six in 6 2/3 scoreless innings.

Despite finishing 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position, the Padres won for the third time in their last five games.

Washington had its winning streak snapped at four games.

Game Notes

No Nationals/Expos team has swept a series in San Diego since July 7-10, 1994, a four-game set...The Padres had lost five in a row at home to the Nationals.