(Patrick McDermott - GETTY IMAGES) The first time could be bad luck. The second time could be a funny coincidence. But by the third time new MASN sideline reporter Kristina Akra was doused in Ga­tor­ade — after Saturday’s walk-off win — I no longer believe this to be happenstance.

I believe, in other words, that the Nationals may be targeting Akra with their postgame Ga­tor­ade showers. Somebody launch an investigation.

Akra, whom I wrote about last week, has now covered 12 Nats wins during her brief tenure with the network. Three times she’s been on the wrong end of a post-game athletic drink bath, none more dramatic than on Saturday, as expertly documented above and below.

I mean, this isn’t just a few stray drops. She is dang close to the epicenter here. And whatever happened to the shaving-cream pie, anyhow? So much easier to control.

(Patrick McDermott - GETTY IMAGES) And golly, Rick Ankiel looks devious, no? Never trust a man who’s that happy.

Anyhow, Nats Enquirer has done a brilliant job of capturing past Ga­tor­ade moments. See his full gallery of shots here and here. Two highlights below.

As you can see, this is something of a pattern now. What’s more, this has now happened three times in eight calendar days. And I don’t see it ending any time soon. Welcome to Washington, Kristina.