The Nats lost 5-2 in Atlanta to begin a six game road trip. Al & Mark focus on how these games are of supreme importance to the Braves, who are just a game back of the Mets for the division lead. Atlanta is seeking a fifth consecutive NL East crown. (05:30) Joey Meneses gathered four hits on Monday and is hitting .325 since being called up on August 2nd. His OPS in abbreviated action this season is .904. The conversation then steers to fellow pleasant surprise, Ildemaro Vargas. (13:45) The team's official twitter account pointed out how high the Nats offense ranks in various categories this month. The hosts explore what it means that this has happened post trade deadline two seasons ago. (20:10) Cory Abbott was tagged with the loss as he only lasted four innings. He gave up a Solo HR to Austin Riley, who has gone deep against Washington eight times so far this year. (23:55) The conversation steers towards the struggles that Juan Soto and Josh Bell have experienced since last month's trade. Soto is hitting .163 this month and Bell's average has dropped 27 points since changing teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices