LOS ANGELES — Max Scherzer said he had not even worked up a sweat when he trotted out of the Washington Nationals’ bullpen late Friday night. He’s used to warming up when the sun is still out, after all.

But with the Nationals up by two runs over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 2 of their National League division series, Washington Manager Dave Martinez turned to Scherzer, their veteran starter, to protect the lead in the eighth inning.

The strategy worked. Again.

The bullpen door swinging open has been a source of trepidation for the Nationals this season, as their relievers had the worst E.R.A. (5.66) in the majors. The sight of Scherzer running out undoubtedly brought different emotions.

Scherzer was dominant, striking out the side in the eighth inning on 14 pitches — including a 99 m.p.h. fastball — to help the Nationals win, 4-2, and even the best-of-five series at one game apiece as the teams head to Washington for Games 3 and 4.