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Nationals Turn to Unbeaten Trevor Williams in Series Finale vs. Braves
Trevor Williams (4-0, 2.29 ERA) has been a standout for the Nationals this season. He’s set to make his 11th start, hoping to build on his strong recent performances. Despite not getting a decision in his last three games, Williams has been rock-solid, allowing just one run on five hits over five innings in his latest outing against the Seattle Mariners, which the Nationals won 3-1.
Williams is no stranger to the Braves, facing them for the 11th time and making his seventh start against them. He holds a 2-1 record with a 3.38 ERA as a starter against Atlanta and hasn’t given up more than two runs in any of his last five starts against them.
Nationals’ Pitching Dominance
The Nationals’ starters have been dominant in this series. Jake Irvin and MacKenzie Gore both delivered back-to-back 10-strikeout games, setting a high bar for Williams to match.
Reynaldo Lopez’s Challenge
Opposing Williams will be Atlanta’s Reynaldo Lopez (2-2, 1.75 ERA). Lopez has struggled to notch a win since April 16, with his last outing resulting in a loss against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He gave up three runs (two earned) on five hits over 4 2/3 innings, marking his shortest outing of the year. Lopez’s only other start against the Nationals was in 2019, where he allowed six runs over four innings while with the Chicago White Sox.
Lane Thomas’ Impactful Return
The Nationals have been energized by the return of right fielder Lane Thomas, who missed a month with a left ACL sprain. Thomas made a significant impact in the series, going 3-for-4 and hitting a three-run homer on Wednesday, his first since April 14 against Oakland. Thomas has been productive, going 5-for-13 with three runs and three RBIs in the series.
Thomas credited his successful return to a rehab stint in Triple-A. “All you can do is take all your at-bats seriously,” he said. “There are some good arms down there, guys with big-league stuff. It gave me confidence taking some good at-bats.”
Injury Concerns for the Nationals
The Nationals might have to manage without third baseman Nick Senzel, who left Wednesday’s game with a right knee injury. Additionally, center fielder Jacob Young had a scare when he was hit in the head by a pitch but managed to stay in the game and later contributed with a two-run single.
Braves’ Lineup Adjustments
The Braves continue to tweak their lineup following Ronald Acuna Jr.’s season-ending injury. Adam Duvall has moved to right field, and Jarred Kelenic to left, moving away from their previous platoon strategy. “I’m just looking forward to the opportunity to go out there every single day,” Kelenic said. Duvall added, “I just show up ready to play, and wherever they put me, that’s where I go play, and I’ll try to impact the game.”
Additionally, the Braves signed former big leaguer Ramon Laureano to a minor-league deal, adding depth to their outfield options. “You just keep adding depth wherever you can,” said Atlanta manager Brian Snitker.
Looking Ahead
As the Nationals aim to clinch the series with Williams on the mound, they remain optimistic despite recent injuries. The Braves, meanwhile, will look to counter with Lopez and their adjusted lineup, hoping to salvage a split in the series.
With both teams making strategic moves and adjustments, Thursday night’s game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the series.
