The Atlanta Braves blanked the Washington Nationals 8-0 on Monday night in the opener of a three-game National League East set at Nationals Park up in Washington DC, marking the third straight victory for the Braves. Atlanta is now one game behind the division-leading New York Mets, who were idle on Monday. The win followed a visit to the White House for the 2021 World Series champions earlier in the day.
Matt Olson led the charge offensively with three RBIs to include a two-run homer that got the visiting team on the board in the top of the fourth inning.
Marcell Ozuna added a solo shot during the top of the fifth.
The Braves notched five more runs in the sixth to include a two-run shot by Orlando Arcia.
Bryce Elder picked up the win for Atlanta after pitching a complete game in which he gave up six hits, walked one, and struck out six over nine scoreless innings. Cory Abbott took the loss for Washington.
The Braves improved to 96-58 with eight games remaining in the ’22 regular season. They will face the Nats again tonight in DC. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm. Listen on WLAQ 1410 AM/96.9 FM; airtime is 5:50 pm.