- Braves look to break HR record in season finale vs. Nationals

The Atlanta Braves are aiming to achieve one more milestone as they conclude the regular season against the Washington Nationals. After breaking several individual and franchise records, the Braves are now three home runs away from breaking the major league record set by the Minnesota Twins in 2019. Marcell Ozuna’s go-ahead three-run homer in their recent win brought them closer to the record. Additionally, Spencer Strider’s performance in the victory allowed him to break the Braves’ modern-era, single-season strikeout record previously held by John Smoltz. Ronald Acuna Jr., the right fielder, also set a Braves modern-era franchise record by recording his 73rd stolen base in the win. Acuna’s teammates acknowledge the effort required to achieve such feats. Acuna himself became the first player to record 40 homers and 70 steals in a season. Despite already clinching the National League East and home-field advantage throughout the postseason, the Nationals are determined to end the season on a high note. Their 70 wins this season mark a 15-game improvement from the previous year. Nationals manager Dave Martinez expressed his pride in the team’s progress and hard work. The Nationals will start right-hander Jackson Rutledge in the regular-season finale against left-hander Dylan Dodd. Dodd received the opportunity to start in place of Bryce Elder, who is being rested after a successful season. Dodd has allowed 24 runs in six games this season. Rutledge, on the other hand, earned his first major league victory in his previous outing against the Braves. He expressed confidence in his abilities and is set to make his fourth career start.