Atlanta Braves' Bryce Elder Turns in Big Start Again vs. Nationals

The Atlanta Braves defeated the Washington Nationals by a final score of 5-4 on Friday night. Atlanta improved to 36-16 with the win as their incredible season continues. Bryce Elder led the way with another impressive start on the mound.

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Elder turned in six innings of one-run baseball while striking out four hitters. He allowed five hits and one walk as well in the quality start. The Braves' bullpen surrendered a few runs so Elder did not earn the win, but Atlanta was able to earn the victory in the end.

Elder, 27, has been one of the best starting pitchers in the game this year. He now holds a 1.97 ERA across his 11 starts. Elder has 60 strikeouts in 68.2 innings of work as well. Chris Sale understandably receives most of the attention in the Braves' starting rotation, but Elder's performance should not be overlooked. 

Elder's effort this year is even more impressive considering the fact that he pitched to a lackluster 5.30 ERA in 28 starts a season ago. There were no guarantees that he would even begin the '26 campaign in the starting rotation.

Yet, he has been incredible over his 11 games pitched. The Braves would not be where they are without Elder's pitching. 

Braves Earn Victory vs. Nationals on Friday

Atlanta once again performed well on Friday night. It was not a perfect game, but the Braves got the job done. 

The pitching ultimately allowed four runs on 10 hits. The pitching did enough to help the Braves get the victory.

Offensively, Atlanta scored five runs on 11 hits. Mauricio Dubon had three hits and a double. Austin Riley added 3 hits while Chadwick Tromp also recorded two hits. 

The Braves continue to play well and they look like a legitimate World Series contender at the moment. 

Atlanta, as mentioned, now holds a 36-16 record. The Braves have the best record in the sport at the moment. In the National League East standings, they hold a comfortable 10.5 game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies, who are in second place. The 25-27 Nationals are 11 games back in the division and in third place.

The Braves will look to continue to build their lead in the division on Saturday against the Nationals once again. First pitch for Saturday afternoon's contest between the Braves and Nationals is scheduled for Saturday at 4:10 PM EST in Atlanta.

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