Chris Sale Earns First Win vs. Nationals as Braves Extend Winning Streak, Acuña Homers in 11-5 Victory

Monday, September 22nd, 2025

Braves Continue Winning Streak with 11-5 Victory Over Nationals

The Atlanta Braves extended their winning streak to nine games with a decisive 11-5 victory over the Washington Nationals. The Braves showcased their offensive strength as Ronald Acuña Jr. delivered a powerful performance, homering and reaching base five times.

Chris Sale Earns First Win Against Nationals

Chris Sale notched his first career win against Washington, improving his record to 6-5 for the season. Sale allowed five runs on three hits over five innings, marking only the second time this year he has surrendered five earned runs in a start. José Suarez provided solid relief, pitching three scoreless innings to secure his first save.

Offensive Highlights for Atlanta

Rookie catcher Drake Baldwin impressed with a 2-for-4 performance and two RBI, continuing his strong run with an RBI in six consecutive games. Acuña Jr. not only hit a home run but also drew three walks and was hit by a pitch, reaching base a total of five times.

Tough Outing for Nationals Starter

Nationals starter MacKenzie Gore struggled, giving up four runs on four hits in just two innings. The Nationals were unable to recover from Atlanta’s explosive offense throughout the game.

Injury Update: Ozzie Albies

Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies exited the game with a fractured hamate bone in his left hand after fouling off a pitch in the third inning. He remained for one more pitch before leaving the field and receiving attention from the medical staff.

Key Moment

A pivotal moment occurred in the third inning when Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim worked a walk on a check swing to load the bases. After an appeal, umpires ruled no swing, prompting Nationals interim manager Miguel Cairo to be ejected for arguing. The Braves capitalized on the situation, scoring five runs in the inning.

Key Stat

Prior to this matchup, Chris Sale had never recorded a win against the Nationals. Now, only the Marlins, Cardinals, and Braves remain as teams he has yet to defeat in his career.

Up Next

In the next game, Nationals left-hander Andrew Alvarez (1-1, 2.84 ERA) is set to face Braves right-hander Hurston Waldrep (5-1, 3.04 ERA).

In summary

The Atlanta Braves are surging late in the season with their ninth straight win, powered by home runs from Ronald Acuña Jr. and strong contributions from rookie Drake Baldwin. Chris Sale notched a significant career victory, while the Nationals struggled to keep pace. The Braves will look to maintain their momentum heading into the next matchup as the Nationals aim to break their rivals’ winning streak.

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