New closer David Robertson throws scoreless inning in 1st outing as Yankees beat Nationals 4-2

New York Yankees starting pitcher Ivan Nova throws during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Monday, March 3, 2014, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) (The Associated Press)

Washington Nationals starting pitcher Ross Detwiler throws a pitch during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game against the New York Yankees Monday, March 3, 2014, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) (The Associated Press)

David Robertson pitched a scoreless fourth inning Monday in his first appearance as the Yankees' new closer in New York's 4-2 victory over the Washington Nationals.

Robertson hit his first batter, Danny Espinosa, then induced a double-play grounder by Tyler Moore to shortstop Derek Jeter, who fielded a tough-hop grounder. Robertson is replacing career saves leader Mariano Rivera, who retired after last season.

Jeter went 0 for 3, including a double-play grounder. He is hitless in seven at-bats over three spring training games. The Yankees captain broke an ankle in the 2012 AL championship series and played in just 17 games last season.

Zach Walters hit a solo homer for the Nationals.