Pache’s strong defense already has earned comparisons with Jones.

“We stay in constant communication,” Pache said through a translator on Wednesday. “He congratulated me yesterday. … I honestly just feel very grateful to be compared to a legendary player like Andruw Jones.”

Pache has primarily played center field in the minor leagues, but Snitker said he planned to have the rookie play in the expansive left field at Truist Park “and let him run around.” Ender Inciarte was in the lineup in center field.

The Braves and Nationals split the first two games of the series.

The NL East rivals are scheduled to play each other 10 times in this pandemic-shortened season, including a four-game series at Washington from Sept. 10-13.

Nationals: LHP Sean Doolittle (right knee inflammation) threw a 20-pitch bullpen session and could face hitters on Friday. “He felt OK,” manager Dave Martinez said. … 1B Howie Kendrick (hamstring) missed his fifth straight start. Martinez said Kendrick has improved but has been protected from even pinch-hitting duty in an attempt to avoid aggravating the injury. Martinez said he hopes Kendrick can play on Friday night.

Braves: There was no update on Markakis, who already has had one negative test for the coronavirus.