DJ Herz led the Washington Nationals to a 5-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Sunday, avoiding a three-game sweep. Herz struck out eight batters in five innings, allowing just one hit and three walks. CJ Abrams and Jacob Young contributed offensively, with Abrams recording two hits and two RBIs, while Young scored two runs. Matt Olson hit a home run for the Braves to tie the game at 1-1, but Washington responded with three runs in the seventh inning. The Nationals had six rookies in their starting lineup.
Reynaldo López pitched well for the Braves, striking out seven in six innings, but it was not enough to secure the win. Center fielder Michael Harris II left the game in the fifth inning due to left hand soreness after being hit by a pitch earlier in the game. The Nationals will face the New York Yankees next, with highly anticipated rookie Dylan Crews expected to make his debut. The Braves will play the Minnesota Twins, with Max Fried set to start on the mound.
Herz’s dominant performance on the mound, combined with solid offensive contributions from Abrams and Young, led the Nationals to a much-needed victory. Washington will look to build on this win as they continue their season.
Source
Photo credit wtop.com