Braves start road series against Nationals with AJ Smith-Shawver starting

The Atlanta Braves travel to Nationals Park to begin a two-game series against the Washington Nationals on September 1. Atlanta enters the matchup following a successful homestand where the team went 6-1 against NL West opponents. The Braves are set to start right-handed pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver, who is making his third start since being recalled on August 18. Smith-Shawver is coming off a five-inning outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Washington counters with right-handed pitcher Jake Irvin, who holds a 2-8 record and a 5.62 ERA this season. The Nationals currently carry a 66-74 record and have faced struggles with a bullpen that is two blown saves shy of the MLB record. James Wood remains on the injury list for Washington, though he is expected to return to the lineup soon.

• 5:30 PMYahoo Sports — Braves begin NL East road trip with AJ Smith-Shawver set to start Nationals series opener