The San Francisco Giants have been drowning in the sweltering heat as well as the offensive juggernaut that is the Washington Nationals so far this series, taking a thumping in the first two games of the set at Nationals Park. Now the Black and Orange turn to Matt Cain to right the ship, hoping that Mr. Perfect can avoid a sweep on Thursday evening.

Cain has struggled since his perfect game, including an 11-hit outing in which he allowed five earned runs in 6 2/3 innings against the Reds in his last start. He was 4-0 with a 1.25 ERA in June before that start, taking his first L since May 1.

The Nats will send out Ross Detwiler to face Cain, who joined the rotation just a few weeks ago on June 24. He was solid through six innings against the Braves in his last start, but eventually gave up four runs and the lead in what turned into a wild 5-4 Washington victory.

This is the first time since 2010 that the Giants haven't won the series in Washington. The Giants and Nationals will meet again Aug. 13-15 at AT&T Park.

First pitch is set for 4:05 p.m. PT with coverage on CSN Bay Area and KNBR 680 AM.

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