Braves' Smith-Shawver Throws Six Strong Innings to Win Series vs Nationals

AJ Smith-Shawver delivered another strong performance for the Atlanta Braves, pitching six innings with only two hits allowed and no earned runs as the Braves defeated the Washington Nationals 5-2. Smith-Shawver, 22, has now won his last three decisions and maintained an impressive 2.33 ERA over 38.2 innings this season, showcasing his reliability since being recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett. The Braves secured three wins in the four-game series, improving to a .500 record, with key contributions from Nick Allen and a productive fifth inning that extended their lead. Washington's only run came from an unearned score due to a fielding error, and despite a home run by C.J. Abrams in the eighth, the Nationals struggled overall, suffering their eighth loss in nine games. Relief pitchers Pierce Johnson, Dylan Lee, and Raisel Iglesias helped close out the game, with Iglesias earning his seventh save despite a recent blown save. The Braves are set to continue their schedule with upcoming series against the Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox.