The Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves are scheduled to meet again on July 31 at 7:15 p.m. ET, one day after the Braves edged the Nationals 5-4 on July 30.
It is another important NL East matchup, with Atlanta entering at 64-45 and in first place, while Washington sits at 55-55 and fourth in the division. The teams have already shown how tight this series can be, and the one-run result on Tuesday sets up another game that could hinge on a few key pitches or timely hits.
Pitching matchup to watch
Bryce Elder is expected to start for the Braves, giving Atlanta a familiar arm as it tries to build on its recent win. Foster Griffin is listed to start for the Nationals, giving Washington a chance to even the series against the division leader.
The matchup is straightforward, but the setting adds weight. The Braves have played like a first-place team for most of the season, and their record reflects that. The Nationals, meanwhile, have hovered around.500 and will try to use this game to stay competitive in the division race.
What to know before first pitch
The biggest storyline is simple: can the Nationals respond after a close loss, or will the Braves keep control of the series? With the game set for 7:15 p.m. ET, the July 31 meeting offers another quick turnaround and another chance for both clubs to make a statement in the NL East.
