Desperate Nats Take On Braves

Coming into the season, the Nats and Braves looked to be setting up a titanic battle over the NL East. However, the Nationals have disappointed massively, currently sitting three games under .500 and 12.5 games behind Atlanta. The Braves are riding a ten-game winning streak into DC, one that the Nats will need to snap in order to have any hope of contending for the division crown. Fortunately, the Nats will send out their three aces for this series, starting tonight with Stephen Strasburg (5-9, 3.04). The Braves will send out lefty Mike Minor (11-5, 2.75). Note: Jayson Werthwas scratched from the lineup after his groin strain continues to bother him. Here are tonight’s updated lineups:

Aug 4, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Washington Nationals first baseman Adam LaRoche (25) is greeted in the dugout by center fielder Denard Span (2) and pitcher Jordan Zimmermann (27) after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Washington

Bryce Harper CF

Ian Desmond SS

Ryan Zimmerman 3B

Wilson Ramos C

Adam LaRoche 1B

Anthony Rendon 2B

Steve Lombardozzi LF

Scott Hairston RF

Strasburg RHP

Atlanta

Jason Heyward RF