The Japanese left-hander gave up four first-inning runs as the Nationals fell, 6-4, to the Red Sox to wrap up a three-game sweep.

Ogasawara has made 6 minor league starts in a year where he has been battling injuries. He has been alright in those starts with a 4.50 ERA and 24 strikeouts in 24 innings. It is still cool to see the 27 year old in the big leagues. I am fascinated to see what he can do.

The Washington Nationals recalled left-handed pitcher Shinnosuke Ogasawara from Triple-A Rochester on Sunday and optioned right-handed pitcher Ryan Loutos to Triple-A Rochester on Saturday. Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcement.