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Max Scherzer, Jonathan Papelbon lift Nationals past Marlins

MIAMI — Max Scherzer scattered three hits over seven innings, Jonathan Papelbon picked up his first save with a perfect ninth inning and the Washington Nationals beat the Miami Marlins, 1-0, on Thursday afternoon.

Backed by Ryan Zimmerman’s second-inning home run off Dan Haren, Scherzer (11-8) struck out six and lowered his ERA to 2.22.

Former closer Drew Storen pitched a perfect eighth, striking out two in his new setup role.

Papelbon, acquired Tuesday from the Philadelphia Phillies, retired Ichiro Suzuki on a comebacker, got Christian Yelich to line out and struck out pinch-hitter Michael Morse for his 18th save in 18 chances this season.