Jake Irvin helps Nationals hold Braves in check

(Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)
Washington right-hander Jake Irvin continued to mystify the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday, throwing six strong innings to help the host Nationals to a 5-1 win and a split of the two-game series.

The loss drops Atlanta (79-67) one game behind the Mets in the pursuit of the final wild-card spot in the National League. Washington (65-80) won the season series 8-5 against the Braves.

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