Tidbits on Nationals

Left-hander Scott Olsen made his sixth start of the spring and gave up three runs — one earned — in 5 2/3 innings against the Astros on Saturday afternoon. Early in the game, Olsen had problems  getting the ball down in the strike zone, but made the adjustment by the fourth inning. From that point to the sixth inning, Olsen retired six consecutive batters before walking Darin Erstad.    

Catcher Jesus Flores played in his first game since Feb. 28 and went 1-for-4 with a run scored against the Astros. Flores had missed most of the spring because of a sore right elbow.

Relievers Joe Beimel and Julian Tavarez made their Nationals debuts on Saturday. Tavarez lasted 1 1/3 innings and struck out two batters, while Beimel pitched an inning without giving up a run.