The Nationals have gained some ground and are hoping for more

After a 10-1 loss to the New York Mets on June 5, the Nationals trailed the Atlanta Braves by a season-high eight games. The Nationals' record fell to 29-30, and the Braves led the National League East with a 37-22 record. Since then, the deficit has been shaved in half to four games. In the month-plus since June 5, the Braves are 13-16 and the Nationals 17-12.