Max Scherzer allowed six hits in three innings but the new Nationals' starter gave up just one run in Tuesday's start.
Scherzer struck out three Marlins, including slugger Giancarlo Stanton. He also got Stanton to ground into a double play.
Scherzer threw 47 pitches in the outing. He declared himself pleased with the performance and happy that he had the chance to pitch out of the stretch.