Adam Kennedy and Ryan Zimmerman hit back-to-back home runs in the third inning, Ivan Rodriguez had four hits and an RBI and the Washington Nationals beat the New York Mets 3-2 on Monday.

Rookie Luis Atilano (3-0) gave a short, but strong effort, allowing five hits, two walks and no runs before leaving with two on and one out in the sixth. The right-hander struck out five and won for the third time in four major-league starts.

Washington's bullpen worked out of jams in the sixth, seventh and eighth to preserve it, stranding the tying run in scoring position twice.

Miguel Batista allowed a solo home run to Angel Pagan in the ninth, but earned his first save as closer Matt Capps got the night off after pitching in back-to-back games.

John Maine (1-2) went six innings for the Mets, allowing the two homers. He gave up two runs on seven hits, walked four and struck out five.

Mets shortstop Jose Reyes and manager Jerry Manuel were ejected for arguing with home plate umpire Laz Diaz after Reyes struck out looking to end the seventh with the tying run at second base.

David Wright and Rod Barajas had two hits apiece for the Mets and Luis Castillo drove in New York's other run with a single in the seventh.