Lastings Milledge homered for Washington's other run.

Collin Balester worked five-plus innings and earned the victory for the Nationals, who won for only the third time in their last 17 games. Balester (3-6) allowed one run on five hits with two walks.

Nomar Garciaparra scored the only run for the Dodgers, who have dropped five straight games and seven of eight. Manny Ramirez was 3-for-4 in the loss.

Losing pitcher Derek Lowe (10-11) worked eight innings and gave up two runs on six hits with six strikeouts.