Nats Drop Another to Braves, Fall Further From First
Yesterday, the Nationals lost their second straight game to the Braves. While they entered the series in first place by 0.5 games, they now trail the Braves by 1.5 games.
The biggest factor in yesterday’s loss was the lack of hitting from the Nationals . The entire lineup had two hits (one from Trea Turner, one from Bryce Harper). The Braves on the other hand, tallied nine hits, including a three-run home run from shortstop Dansby Swanson.
Nationals’ starter Stephen Strasburg pitched more or less well, allowing his only runs on Swanson’s home run. He also tallied ten strikeouts. The Nationals’ bullpen from yesterday featured Sammy Solis, Tim Collins, and Ryan Madson.
Strasburg was no match for Braves’ starter Mike Foltynewicz, who pitched a complete game 2-hit shutout. Foltynewicz struck out eleven. The Nats will play the Braves again today at 4:10 PM. The Nats will have Gio Gonzalez on the hill, who has been electrifying so far this season. The Braves will throw Brandon McCarthy, who brags a 5-2 record despite his subpar 5.02 ERA.
