Blink and you’ll miss it: the Nats are in a four-way tie for first place, which is about as meaningless as Joe Lieberman’s post-New Hampshire declaration: “We are in a three-way split decision for third place!”

DCist has already noted the Nationals’ first win twice today, but that’s just how excited we are. After a persuasive loss to the Phillies in their opener on Monday, the Nats rebounded last night to deliver an equally harsh defeat to their not-so-accomodating hosts. During the uneventful first half of the game, it looked like Washington might eke out a 1-0 victory. Then in the sixth, the Phillies pulled ahead for an inning and a half. But the Nats came back with four runs in inning numero ocho. That put them ahead for good. The Nats and Phillies are playing again today; you can follow along with the game here.

Also of note: Brad Wilkerson hit for the cycle yesterday, the second of his career. For the baseball un-savvy, that’s hitting a single, double, triple and a homer in one game. Savor it while you can; leaguewide, it only happens a few times each year.

Like the Senator from Connecticut, the Nats have Joementum on their side. Like him, they’ll keep running even if it hurts. And both know they’re headed back to the District eventually.

(Image of a surrenduring Phanatic from ESPN.com.)