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Atlanta Braves fall to Washington Nationals, 3-2, following den Dekker's 2-run double
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Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Bud Norris (20) works in the first inning of Wednesday's game against the Washington Nationals in Atlanta. - photo by John Bazemore

ATLANTA — Pinch-hitter Matt den Dekker, recalled from the minors earlier in the day, had a tiebreaking, two-run double in a three-run seventh inning that led the Washington Nationals over the Atlanta Braves 3-1 Wednesday night for an opening two-game sweep.

Stephen Strasburg (1-0), starting his final season with the Nationals before becoming eligible for free agency, allowed one run and six hits in six innings.

Jonathan Papelbon gave up one-out singles to Adonis Garcia, who had three hits, and Nick Markakis in the ninth. With Garcia at third and pinch-runner Drew Stubbs on second with two outs, Papelbon struck out A.J. Pierzynski for his second save.

Bud Norris (0-1), making his Atlanta debut after signing as a free agent, gave up three runs and six hits in seven innings.

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