Pérez, starting on short notice, flirts with no-hitter as Braves beat Nationals

Martín Pérez, starting on short notice, came within one out of a no-hitter in Saturday's game. The Braves beat the Nationals 8-3. Pérez, who was called in to pitch on short notice, struck out six batters. The Nationals' loss raises questions about their standing in the league. Pérez's performance was a standout moment in the game.

He pitched brilliantly, keeping the Nationals' hitters off balance for most of the game. The Nationals' lone hit came in the seventh inning, ending Pérez's no-hitter bid. The Braves' offense supported Pérez with eight runs, powering past the Nationals. The Nationals' loss is part of a larger trend of struggles. The Washington Post notes that the team looks less like contenders after the loss.

The Braves, meanwhile, continue to build momentum with another win. The Nationals will need to regroup and address their issues if they hope to turn things around. The game was a significant moment for Pérez, who turned an unexpected opportunity into one of the best starts of his career. The Nationals' struggles highlight the challenges they face as they look to improve their standing in the league. The Braves' win adds to their growing list of victories, solidifying their position as a strong team.