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Braves make intriguing switch ahead of series finale vs. Nationals

The Atlanta Braves continue to manage their pitching rotation without ace Spencer Strider and young pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver.

The Braves will not have Reynaldo Lopez start on Thursday against the Washington Nationals, per David O'Brien of The Athletic:

“Braves said after tonight's game that Ray Kerr will start Thursday's series finale vs. Nationals, not the originally announced Reynaldo Lopez. Trevor Williams (4-0, 2.29 ERA ) will start for the Nats.”

O'Brien also explained the reasoning for the change.

“Lopez would've been on “regular” four days' rest, which he's only done once this season — in his last start Saturday at Pittsburgh, where he had his shortest outing (4 2/3 IP) and fewest Ks (3) this season.