WASHINGTON – Bryce Harper had three hits, including his 33rd home run, and Gio Gonzalez tossed six scoreless innings as the surging Washington Nationals defeated the Atlanta Braves 8-2 Saturday night for their fourth straight win.
Washington remains five games back of the NL East-leading Mets, who beat the Marlins 7-0.
Harper’s two-run blast, which doubled as his 500th career hit, capped a four-run third inning against Atlanta starter Shelby Miller (5-13). The National League batting leader also doubled twice.
Gonzalez (10-7) held the Braves hitless through five innings. He allowed two hits with 10 strikeouts and four walks for his first victory since Aug. 10.
Ryan Zimmerman also drove in two runs. Ian Desmond added three hits.