Wire Taps: Bryce Harper struggling; Daniel Murphy as a backup plan; sprinklers go off

It was just one of those nights at the ballpark. The game started after a rain delay (during which the sprinklers went off), the Nats gave up seven early runs, and by the end, there were so many Mets fans in the ballpark, it felt more like Citi Field than Nationals Park. Please take this as your call to wear red, go to the ballpark, and cheer loudly.

Here's the latest from the ballpark.

Daniel Murphy is literally the best back up plan of all time
Murphy, believe it or not, was never the Nationals' first choice at second. First, they tried to get their hands on Ben Zobrist, then Brandon Phillips. As it turns out, the Nats were lucky to have to fall back in Murphy.

The sprinklers went on during a rain delay
It was just that kind of night.

The bullpen, a mix of old and new, is working well (and bonding)
Four new relievers joined the pen this offseason. Already, they're making fun of Dan Firova, the bullpen coach, which is a great sign.

The NL East was never going to be an easy task, and the Mets reminded the Nats of that last night
The Nationals, although they've been in first for the majority of the season, have no easy task in keeping the New York Mets behind them, and last night just proved that yet again.

What's up with Bryce Harper?
Harper, who went 0-4 last night, is in an uncharacteristic slump. What's going on?

Tonight's Game: Mets vs Nationals - 7:05 PM (MASN, WJFK)
Probable Pitchers: Matt Harvey (3-6, 5.77 ERA) vs Stephen Strasburg (7-0, 2.80 ERA)