WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 20: CJ Abrams #5 of the Washington Nationals steals second base in the sixth inning ahead of the throw to Jorge Mateo #2 of the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park on April 20, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Braves stormed into DC and knocked off the Nats in game one of the series. Now, the Nats will look to even things up in their four game set with the division leaders. To do so, they need to tighten up defensively.
The errors have been piling up for the Nats lately.This is a bit of an unusual lineup from Blake Butera. The thing that immediately stands out is Jacob Young in the 3 hole. Butera said he wanted to avoid stacking too many left handed hitters.
Brady House will be out of the lineup. In his place, Jorbit Vivas will play third. Usually the Nats rotate catchers, but Drew Millas will get his second straight start.
Foster Griffin has been the Nats best starter this year, but today will be a challenge for the lefty.nothing like a lineup→ https://t.co/iUBDqlACVspic.twitter.com/7pt5KosM2x— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 21, 2026The Braves are making a couple alterations themselves. Drake Baldwin will be in the DH spot, meaning Jonah Heim will catch. Mauricio Dubon will be at shortstop in place of Jorge Mateo.
Despite leaving the game yesterday, Ronald Acuna Jr. will be back in his customary lead off spot. Reynaldo Lopez started his career in DC, so tonight will be a bit of a homecoming for the 32 year old right hander.Day 2!#BravesCountrypic.twitter.com/1E3eXDCIc4— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) April 21, 2026Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!Game Info:Stadium: Nationals ParkTime: 6:45 PM ESTTV: Nationals.TVRadio: 106.7 The FanThe Braves took over in the middle innings last night to take game one.
Now, it is time for the Nats to strike back. With Griffin on the mound, there should be some confidence, but the Braves are on a roll. Follow along down below and let’s go Nats!