Braves Offense Lights off Again to Even Series in Miami
The Atlanta Braves got a spark from the bats to keep pace in the NL Wild Card Race. Can it last?
The Atlanta Braves defeated the Miami Marlins 6-2 on Saturday afternoon to even the final road series of the year.
Here’s what you need to know from the contest.
Max Fried Delivered
After getting behind in the first inning, Max Fried dominated against the Marlins on Saturday afternoon. The 30-year-old picked up another quality start on the year as he went six solid innings and only allowed one earned run, striking out six strikeouts and walking just one. He had a great bounceback after giving up three free passes in his last start.
Fried threw 100 pitchers on the night, with 69 of them going for strikes. He picked up 14 whiffs and recorded an impressive 34% CSW.
The top of the order is not letting this season go away quietly
After a tough offensive outing on Friday night, today’s lineup played a complete game at the plate. The players at the top (and middle) of the lineup did exactly what was needed from them. The team got three homers on the night, and across the lineup they recorded 14 hits, something they absolutely needed.
Both Jorge Soler and Matt Olson refuse to let this team go down without fighting. They both picked up homers on the day, something that has been big for the club during this past road trip. Those two, Michael Harris and slugger Marcell Ozuna (who continues to LOVE hitting in Miami) combined to go 9 for 17 with four RBI and only two strikeouts.
They need this every night for the next seven games to finish the year if they want any chance of playing in October.
I also have to mention Gio Urshela. Although not at the top of the lineup, he picked up a crucial home run to add some much-needed insurance for the Braves.
The Bank is Closed!
If we have learned anything since his return from the injured list, it is that you should not hit it anywhere near Michael Harris II. The Braves center fielder made multiple outstanding plays in the outfield for Atlanta, including a huge potential game-changing defensive play to end the eighth inning for the Marlins.
His play out there is contagious and is exactly what this team needs for their last minute push for a potential postseason bid.
Keeping up with the Cohen’s
Speaking of that postseason bid, that win is exactly what the Braves needed, but not much traction was gained. The Mets defeated the Philadelphia Phillies to keep the Braves two games outside of the final wildcard spot in the National League. Tomorrow’s win is crucial for Atlanta as they can not head into the Mets series down by more than two games if they want to have a chance to make the late season comeback.
What’s Next
The Braves will finish the series with the Marlins at loanDepot Park on Sunday. The game will be the final road game of the regular season for Atlanta before returning to Truist Park for the final six games of the year. Grant Holmes will get the ball as the starter in game three, with first pitch scheduled for 1:40 pm EST.