Wire Taps: Nationals enter consequential Mets series; Howie Kendrick leads; Carter Kieboom, Wil Crowe impress...

So, that homestand wasn’t exactly ideal. The good news? The Nats enter a super low-stakes environment that has no bearing on the rest of the season tonight!

Here’s the scoop from Citi.

A storm cloud hovers over these Nationals, and the immediate forecast is just as troubling
As it seems, nothing can go correctly for these Washington Nationals as everything possible goes the way of the New York Mets. They have three games to stay out of a deep hole. Now that's what I call mid-season adversity that develops playoff ability!

Nationals' Howie Kendrick, leadership defined
Howie Kendrick is a quiet leader in the clubhouse that makes consistent, solid contact, and has fit in perfectly with the Nationals.

Nats Park Beer Guide 2018
The *checks notes* alcoholic beverage also known as *checks notes again* beer is apparently very popular at these baseball institutions. (Also, Goose Island is taking over the first concourse, whatever that means.)

Nationals calling up Jeremy Hellickson to start Monday against Mets
Helickson endured a rough 2017, but is making his case to displace A.J. Cole.

Carter Kieboom, Wil Crowe impress
Wil Crowe has two wins, and Carter Kieboom has three home runs already.

Nationals Daniel Murphy nearing rehab games
Murphy is down at the FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches™, and will get some at-bats by the end of the week.

Daniel Murphy to play in extended spring training games starting this week
Murphy is planning to treat his at-bats in Florida like Spring Training, according to Martinez. The timetable is unclear, but at least Anthony Rendon won't go on the disabled list, and Adam Eaton's close to being back!

Today’s Game: Nationals vs. Mets — 7:10 PM
Probable Pitchers: Jeremy Hellickson (Career: 69-69, 4.12 ERA) vs. Jacob deGrom (2018: 2-0, 3.06 ERA)