KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Derek Lowe got off to a solid start after a rough first season in Atlanta, pitching two hitless innings in the Braves' 11-8 victory over the Washington Nationals on Friday.

The Braves new closer, Billy Wagner, did not fare so well. He gave up three hits and two runs in the third inning.

Yunel Escobar went 3 for 3 with two RBIs and two runs scored and Melky Cabrera had two hits and an RBI for the Braves. Rookie Jordan Heyward had a hit and stole his second base of the spring.

Ian Desmond homered and drove in six runs for the Nationals.

Washington starter Miguel Batista gave up two runs on three hits and two walks.