the Nationals so far

WASHINGTON (AP) — Bryce Harper says he played "terrible" in the first half of the season.

He and the rest of the Washington Nationals need to do better if they're to make a run at the Atlanta Braves in the NL East.

The Nationals are one game above .500 as they resume play following the All-Star break with a home series starting Friday against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Manager Davey Johnson says the Nationals are lucky to be only six games behind the Braves.

Harper had a whirlwind trip to New York for the All-Star festivities, finishing second in the Home Run Derby and getting a spot in the starting lineup in the All-Star game.

But he says he doesn't think he's played well for the Nationals so far.