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
Adam LaRoche 1B
Strasburg RHP
Atlanta
Justin Upton LF
Dan Uggla 2B
B.J. Upton CF
Minor LHP