Washington Nationals vs Atlanta Braves

Washington Nationals at Atlanta Braves (2026-07-31). Foster Griffin vs Bryce Elder at Truist Park.

Starters — Foster Griffin has been excellent with a 2.76 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 124 innings, backed by 8.2 K/9, 2.03 BB/9, and 1.23 HR/9. Over his last three starts, he allowed 3 earned runs in 6.2 innings with 2 strikeouts and 1 walk, then 1 earned run in 7 innings with 2 strikeouts and 1 walk, and 1 earned run in 7 innings with 9 strikeouts and no walks. His trend is up, and the full-season command profile supports that. Bryce Elder carries a 3.96 ERA and 1.25 WHIP across 113.2 innings, with 7.76 K/9, 2.93 BB/9, and 1.43 HR/9. In his last three starts, he worked 5 innings and gave up 1 earned run with 8 strikeouts and 4 walks, then 6 innings with 2 earned runs, 4 strikeouts, and 1 walk, then 4 innings with 3 earned runs, 3 strikeouts, and 2 walks. His trend is down, though the most recent two outings were steadier on run prevention.

Teams — Washington brings the stronger offense by the numbers, posting a .775 OPS, .254 average, and 600 runs scored. The concern for bettors is run prevention behind Griffin, as the Nationals own a 4.76 team ERA and 1.40 WHIP. They are 5-5 over their last 10 games. Atlanta’s lineup has been less productive overall with a .728 OPS, .248 average, and 531 runs, but the Braves have the clear edge on the mound as a team with a 3.71 ERA and 1.25 WHIP. Atlanta is 6-4 in its last 10, which fits the stronger overall pitching foundation.