Nationals Pummel Braves 9-5, Atlanta's Pitching Gets Torched in D.C.

The Nationals put on a hitting clinic Thursday night, dismantling the Braves 9-5 at Nationals Park in a game that was never really close. Washington jumped on Atlanta's pitching staff early and often, building a cushion that made the Braves' late-inning efforts feel like window dressing.

Atlanta's hurlers got absolutely shelled, surrendering nine runs to a Nationals lineup that suddenly remembered how to hit. The Braves managed five runs themselves, but when you're spotting the opposition that kind of lead, you're playing catch-up all night long. And catch up they did not.

Credit where it's due: Washington's bats came alive at the perfect time, stringing together quality at-bats and making Atlanta pay for every mistake. The Braves offense showed some life but couldn't overcome the damage their pitching staff allowed. Five runs should be enough to stay competitive in most games, but not when you're giving up nine.

DarkHorse didn't publish a pick here, which in hindsight looks like the smart play. This one had upset written all over it. The Nationals proved they can still bite when given the opportunity, and Atlanta learned the hard way that coasting through D.C. isn't happening this season.