DC Shooting Postpones Nationals/Braves Game; Doubleheader Scheduled for Tomorrow
By Aaron Somers
Sep 16, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Two sailors from the Washington Navy Yard walk past Nationals Park. The game between the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals has been postponed until tomorrow due to the shooting at the Navy yard. Mandatory Credit: H. Darr Beiser-USA TODAY Sports
Major League Baseball, the Washington Nationals, and Atlanta Braves all agreed to postpone Monday night’s series opener in light of the tragic shooting that took place earlier in the day that resulted in the loss of twelve lives. The incident took place at the US Naval Sea Systems Command Center which is located just a few blocks away from Nationals Park, resulting in a significant police presence around the stadium. Everyone involved ultimately felt it would be best for the safety of the fans to postpone the game.
The team did release a statement on the decision:
"All of us here in the Nationals organization were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic events that occurred this morning only a few blocks from Nationals Park. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.In light of the circumstances, we have decided to postpone tonight’s game against the Atlanta Braves. Additional information will be distributed in the coming hours.The safety of our fans is our utmost priority. As we have throughout the day, the Nationals security personnel will continue to work closely with all levels of law enforcement to reinforce the already high level of security in place at Nationals Park."
The two teams announced later that they’ll makeup the game as part of a day-night doubleheader tomorrow. Atlanta is in town for a three game series as they try to close out the year atop the division. Washington sits 4.5 games out of the second Wild Card spot and needs to take this series in order to hold onto any chance at the postseason.