Braves Defeat Nationals 3-2 in Extra Innings

The Atlanta Braves are aiming for a series sweep against the Washington Nationals after winning their last three games and six of their past seven. Key contributions have come from injury replacements Whit Merrifield, Ramon Laureano, and Gio Urshela, who have combined for 11 hits in the first two games of the series. The Braves' Reynaldo Lopez, with a 2.05 ERA, is set to pitch against the Nationals' DJ Herz. Despite Lopez's impressive recent performances, he has struggled historically against Washington, holding a 7.20 ERA in two prior starts. The Braves have been resilient, winning close games with strategic plays, including a recent victory attributed to a throwing error from Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams. Atlanta currently trails the Philadelphia Phillies by five games in the NL East as they seek to maintain their postseason push.