February 8, 2012

Detwiler primed for final start with Braves in town

The Braves saw their National League Wild Card lead shrink to two games on Saturday, bringing even more drama to Sunday's series finale against the Nationals when Mike Minor squares off against Ross Detwiler.

Wang makes last start memorable as Nats roll

The Nationals played spoiler on Saturday afternoon, taking a 4-1 decision over the Braves. Chien-Ming Wang lasted six innings and allowed one run on four hits in his final start of the season.

Pudge gets first start for Nats since early July

Nationals manager Davey Johnson had Ivan Rodriguez start behind the plate on Saturday afternoon against the Braves. It was his first start since July 4 against the Cubs.

Strasburg scheduled to start season finale

Barring an injury or a rain delay, Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg will start Friday against the Braves and face the Marlins in the last game of the season Wednesday. Catcher Ivan Rodriguez will start in the season finale.

In possible last start, Strasburg can play spoiler

The Braves head to Washington with their NL Wild Card lead dwindling and Stephen Strasburg waiting, but they'll have a man with a strong record against the Nationals in Tim Hudson on the mound.