McCann's three RBI helped stake the Braves to a 6-2 lead, but the Nationals battled into the ninth -- when they closed within a run and left the would-be tying score on third base.

Tim Hudson (10-7) gave up five runs on nine hits in 6 2/3 innings, but managed the win. Mike Gonzalez got his fourth save despite a shaky ninth.

Washington dropped its third straight, with Tim Redding (7-4) taking the loss after giving up six runs on six hits in four innings.

With one out in the ninth, Felipe Lopez singled and went to third on a double by Willie Harris. A ground out by Paul Lo Duca drove in Lopez to make it a one-run game with Harris moving to third. Gonzalez then hit Cristian Guzman with a pitch, putting the potential winning run on base, but Austin Kearns ended the game by lining out to right.