Tuesday, April 30, 2013

(13-14) Washington Nationals at (17-9) Atlanta Braves Recap

"ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Tim Hudson #15 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the seventh inning to the Washington Nationals at Turner Field on April 30, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)"


Is the third time a charm? Tim Hudson will make his third attempt to reach 200 wins in his career tonight at Turner Field against the rival Nationals. Hudson appeared to have his 200th win sealed up when he exited his last start against the Rockies with a two-run lead. Unfortunately for Hudson, the Rockies struck for two runs in the bottom of the 9th off closer Craig Kimbrel and eventually winning in the 11th inning. Huddy pitched great against the then red-hot bats of the Rockies, allowing three runs on six hits, walked two batters, and struck three over six innings en route to his no decision. In his third start of the season against the Nationals, Hudson out pitched Strasburg, only a run on four hits, and struck out three over seven spectacular innings. Nationals are going through a similar road game-heavy schedule that the Braves just finished up. Last night's game marked the beginning of a stretch where the Nats play 22 of their next 32 games on the road, which begins and ends at Turner Field. Getting the ball tonight will be Gio Gonzalez, the Nationals second ace. Gonzalez looked like his normal self in his last outing against the Reds, going eight innings and allowing just one run on one hit, walked two batters, and struck out seven on his way to his second win of 2013. But Gonzalez struggled mightily against the Braves on April 14th. Over five innings, Gonzalez allowed seven runs on seven hits, walked three batters, and struck out three as the Braves whipped up on the Nats, 9-0.  Entering tonight, Gio Gonzalez is 2-3 with a 6.08 ERA in 5 career starts against the Braves. Tim Hudson is 15-5 with an ERA of 2.60 in 27 career starts against the Nationals.



FIRST INNING:
"ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Andrelton Simmons #19 of the Atlanta Braves hits a solo homer in the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Turner Field on April 30, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)"

In Washington's first offensive stretch, Tim Hudson would retire the side in a 1-2-3 fashion as Denard Span was called out on strikes; followed by Danny Espinosa flies out to left fielder Justin Upton and finally, Bryce Harper flied out to center fielder B. J. Upton to end Washington's offensive start. The Braves offense would get a jump start as Andrelton Simmons homered on a fly ball to left field to put Atlanta up 1-0. It was Simmons second home run of the season. Chris Johnson struck out swinging for the first out. Justin Upton walked to add a runner with one on with one out.  Freddie Freeman struck out swinging for the second out. Evan Gattis doubles on a fly ball to left fielder Tyler Moore. Justin Upton scored and gave Atlanta a 2-0 lead with two outs. After Dan Uggla walks with two men on with two outs, B. J. Upton reaches on catcher interference by Wilson Ramos. Evan Gattis to 3rd. Dan Uggla to 2nd. B. Upton to 1st. Reed Johnson strikes out swinging and Atlanta left the bases loaded and took a 2-0 lead into the next inning.

SECOND INNING:
"ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Tim Hudson #15 of the Atlanta Braves rounds third base as he scores in the second inning against the Washington Nationals at Turner Field on April 30, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)"

In the Nationals second stint, Adam LaRoche starts off by flying out to center fielder B. J. Upton; followed by Ian Desmond grounds out sharply, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman and Tyler Moore grounds out softly, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman as the Braves turned yet another 1-2-3 inning. Tim Hudson would open the Braves next offensive stretch as he doubles on a fly ball to left fielder Tyler Moore.  Andrelton Simmons bunt pops out to pitcher Gio Gonzalez for the first out. Chris Johnson singled on a line drive to left fielder Tyler Moore. Tim Hudson scored and Atlanta took a 3-0 lead with one out. With Justin Upton batting, wild pitch by Gio Gonzalez, Chris Johnson to 2nd. Justin Upton called out on strikes for the second out. However, Atlanta continued their great start as Freddie Freeman singles on a line drive to center fielder Denard Span. Chris Johnson scores. Evan Gattis walks. Freddie Freeman to 2nd with two outs. Dan Uggla struck out swinging as the Braves took their 4-0 lead to the next inning.

THIRD INNING:

In Washington's next stretch, Chad Tracy grounds out, first baseman Freddie Freeman to pitcher Tim Hudson; followed by Wilson Ramos grounds out softly, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman. After Gio Gonzalez walks, Denard Span grounds into a force out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to second baseman Dan Uggla. Gio Gonzalez out at 2nd for the last out of the inning. As the Braves came up to bat, B. J. Upton walks with no outs. With Reed Johnson batting, B. Upton picked off and caught stealing 2nd base, pitcher Gio Gonzalez to first baseman Adam LaRoche to shortstop Ian Desmond. Reed Johnson strikes out on a foul tip and Tim Hudson would strike out as the Braves maintained a 4-0 lead.

FOURTH INNING:

Danny Espinosa opened the inning for the Nationals as he struck out swinging. Bryce Harper walked to place one man on with one out. Adam LaRoche grounds into a force out, first baseman Freddie Freeman to shortstop Andrelton Simmons. Bryce Harper out at 2nd. Adam LaRoche to 1st. Ian Desmond grounds into a force out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to second baseman Dan Uggla. Adam LaRoche out at 2nd for the final out and the Braves ended any threat of Washington. As for the Braves, Andrelton Simmons singles on a line drive to center fielder Denard Span. Chris Johnson strikes out swinging for the first out. Justin Upton walks. Andrelton Simmons to 2nd. Freddie Freeman grounds into a force out, shortstop Ian Desmond to second baseman Danny Espinosa. Andrelton Simmons to 3rd. Justin Upton out at 2nd. Freddie Freeman to 1st for the second out. Evan Gattis singles on a line drive to center fielder Denard Span. Andrelton Simmons scores. Freddie Freeman to 3rd to give the Braves a 5-0 lead. Dan Uggla strikes out swinging and the Braves took a 5-0 lead into the next inning.

FIFTH INNING:




"ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Tim Hudson #15 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a solo homer in the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals at Turner Field on April 30, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)"

Washington opened their offensive stint with Tyler Moore double on a fly ball to right fielder Reed Johnson with no outs. Chad Tracy grounds out to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Tyler Moore to 3rd for the first out. Wilson Ramos grounds out softly, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Tyler Moore scores as the Nationals would cut the deficit to 5-1. Pinch-hitter Roger Bernadina replaces Gio Gonzalez and he would grounds out to first baseman Freddie Freeman as the Nationals inning came to an end. In Atlanta's next offensive stretch, B. J. Upton grounds out, third baseman Chad Tracy to first baseman Adam LaRoche for the first out. Reed Johnson grounds out softly, third baseman Chad Tracy to first baseman Adam LaRoche for the second out. After the two outs, Atlanta would come out swinging as pitcher Tim Hudson homers on a fly ball to right field. Andrelton Simmons singled on a soft ground ball to pitcher Zach Duke. Chris Johnson hits a ground-rule double (7) on a fly ball to right-center field. Andrelton Simmons to 3rd. Zach Duke intentionally walked Justin Upton. Freddie Freeman singles on a ground ball to right fielder Bryce Harper, deflected by first baseman Adam LaRoche. Andrelton Simmons scores. Chris Johnson scores. Justin Upton to 3rd and Atlanta took a 8-1 lead with two outs. Evan Gattis grounds out and the Braves took a commanding lead to the next frame.

SIXTH INNING:

Denard Span opened the inning with a single on a ground ball to shortstop Andrelton Simmons with no outs. However, Washington would not capitalize as Danny Espinosa would strike out swinging for the first out; followed by Bryce Harper strikes out swinging for the second out. Adam LaRoche flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton and the Nationals couldn't capitalize on the runner as the Braves maintain their 8-1 lead. In Atlanta's next offensive stretch, they would go down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Dan Uggla flies out to center fielder Denard Span; followed by B. J. Upton grounds out softly, first baseman Adam LaRoche to pitcher Zach Duke and finally, Reed Johnson grounds out to first baseman Adam LaRoche and the Braves would still lead 8-1.

SEVENTH INNING:

Ian Desmond would generate some offense for Washington as he lead off with a triple on a line drive to right fielder Reed Johnson. However, the Nationals couldn't capitalize as Tyler Moore grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman for the first out; followed by Chad Tracy strikes out swinging and finally, Wilson Ramos called out on strikes. Atlanta would go down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Pinch-hitter Juan Francisco strikes out swinging for the first out; followed by Andrelton Simmons lines out to right fielder Bryce Harper and finally,Chris Johnson flies out to right fielder Bryce Harper as the Braves lead 8-1 at the end of the inning.

EIGHTH INNING:   

 Anthony Varvaro replaced Tim Hudson as the pitcher to start this inning and would send the Nationals down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Pinch-hitter Steve Lombardozzi grounds out, pitcher Anthony Varvaro to first baseman Freddie Freeman; followed by Denard Span grounds out, first baseman Freddie Freeman to pitcher Anthony Varvaro and finally, Danny Espinosa strikes out swinging to end the Nationals inning. Atlanta would face reliever Henry Rodriguez and he wouldn't face a huge threat from Atlanta's offense as Justin Upton strikes out swinging for the first out. Although Freddie Freeman singled on a line drive to right fielder Bryce Harper, the Braves couldn't capitalize as Evan Gattis popped out to shortstop Ian Desmond for the second out and Dan Uggla grounds out softly, second baseman Danny Espinosa to first baseman Adam LaRoche and the Braves took their 8-1 lead into the last inning. 

NINTH INNING:

Atlanta wouldn't encounter any trouble as they ended the game sending the Washington Nationals out in a 1-2-3 fashion as Bryce Harper flies out to left fielder Justin Upton; followed by Adam LaRoche grounds out softly, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman and Ian Desmond flies out to right fielder Reed Johnson as the Braves earned another win over their division rival and improved to 17-9 on the season and a remarkable 5-0 against the Washington Nationals in the 2013 MLB season.

WINNING PITCHER:

Tim Hudson (3-1):

(7.0) Innings Pitched, (3) Hits Allowed, (1) Earned Run, (2) Walks Allowed and (6) Strikeouts

LOSING PITCHER:

Gio Gonzalez (2-2):

(4.0) Innings Pitched, (7) Hits Allowed, (5) Earned Runs, (5) Walks Allowed, and (9) Strikeouts


PLAYER OF THE GAME:


"ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Tim Hudson #15 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the third inning to the Washington Nationals at Turner Field on April 30, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)"
Tim Hudson:

Although the Braves entire offense was clicking in tonight's contest, this game will be dedicated to Tim Hudson. Hudson finally earned his 200th career victory and it couldn't have been against a better opponent than the Washington Nationals. Tim Hudson's previous attempts against Pittsburgh and Detroit fell short; however, he made sure from the start that this would indeed be his 200th win. Hudson pitched (7) innings, allowing (3) hits, (2) walks, and one earned run and would strike out six Nationals batters. He would also make an impact offensively as he was (2-3) and accounted for (2) RBI's including a home-run in the fifth inning to give Atlanta's offense a boost that would put the game out of reach. Hudson, (37) is still one of the best pitchers in the MLB and can make a huge impact throughout the game. This game couldn't have went better for him and his performance in both aspects of the game would be critical to the Braves getting a huge victory tonight. 


CONCLUSION:

Tonight's win gives Atlanta an outstanding (17-9) record and they were finally returning to their winning ways and tomorrow, the Braves will look to earn another sweep against one of their biggest divisional rivals, the Washington Nationals as Kris Medlen would take the mound for Atlanta. Jordan Zimmerman would also pitch for Washington, who will look to win their first game of the year against the 2013 Braves ball club.  Atlanta continues to be one of the most impressive teams around the majors to open the 2013 season and tonight's win displayed how special this unit could be throughout the season. Each night, the Braves are showing the nation that they can win ball games in many different aspects and tomorrow, they will look to extend their winning streak to a three games in a row. Until tomorrow, GO BRAVES!!!!


Game 26 Preview: Washington Nationals (13-13) at Atlanta Braves (16-9)

First Pitch: 7:10 pm ET on SportSouth

Pitching Probables: 
Gio Gonzalez (WSH) 2-1, 4.50 ERA
Tim Hudson (ATL) 2-1, 4.50 ERA

Nationals Starting Lineup (career vs. Hudson):
Denard Span - CF (1-7, K)
Danny Espinosa - 2B (5-21, 2B, HR, RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Bryce Harper - RF (3-12, RBI, BB, K)
Adam LaRoche - 1B (6-24, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 2 K)
Ian Desmond - SS (12-41, 2B, HR, 4 RBI, 4 BB, 5 K)
Tyler Moore - LF (N/A)
Chad Tracy - 3B (3-14, 2B, 2 BB, 2 K)
Wilson Ramos - C (4-13, 2B, 2 RBI)
Gio Gonzalez - P (0-2, BB, K)

Braves Starting Lineup (career vs. Gonzalez):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (2-6, 2B, 3 RBI, 3 BB)
Chris Johnson - 3B (3-6, 2 RBI, 2 K)
Justin Upton - LF (1-4, HR, RBI, 2 BB)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-8, 2B, HR, 4 RBI, 3 K)
Evan Gattis - C (1-3, 2B, RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (1-8, 2B, RBI, 6 BB, 3 K)
BJ Upton - CF (2-14, 2B, 4 K)
Reed Johnson - RF (1-6, 3B, 2 RBI, 2 K)
Tim Hudson - P (0-1, BB, K)

Preview:
Is the third time a charm? Tim Hudson will make his third attempt to reach 200 wins in his career tonight at Turner Field against the rival Nationals. Hudson appeared to have his 200th win sealed up when he exited his last start against the Rockies with a two-run lead. Unfortunately for Hudson, the Rockies struck for two runs in the bottom of the 9th off closer Craig Kimbrel and eventually winning in the 11th inning. Huddy pitched great against the then red-hot bats of the Rockies, allowing three runs on six hits, walked two batters, and struck three over six innings en route to his no decision. In his third start of the season against the Nationals, Hudson out pitched Strasburg, only a run on four hits, and struck out three over seven spectacular innings. 
Nationals are going through a similar road game-heavy schedule that the Braves just finished up. Last night's game marked the beginning of a stretch where the Nats play 22 of their next 32 games on the road, which begins and ends at Turner Field. Getting the ball tonight will be Gio Gonzalez, the Nationals second ace. Gonzalez looked like his normal self in his last outing against the Reds, going eight innings and allowing just one run on one hit, walked two batters, and struck out seven on his way to his second win of 2013. But Gonzalez struggled mightily against the Braves on April 14th. Over five innings, Gonzalez allowed seven runs on seven hits, walked three batters, and struck out three as the Braves whipped up on the Nats, 9-0. 

Last chance for Justin Upton to tie April HR record:
Justin Upton enters Tuesday's April finale with 12 home runs, two shy of tying the all-time record for homers hit in April, which is held by Albert Pujols (2006) and Alex Rodriguez (2007).

Chris Johnson hitting in the 2 hole:
Fredi Gonzalez has decided to put Chris Johnson in the second spot of tonight's starting lineup. And why not? Chris Johnson enters play today leading the NL in hitting with a .367 average and has an OBP of .390. Fredi continues to shuffle the lineup in order to get runners on base in front of Justin Upton, who has 12 HRs this season, 11 of which have been solo. 

Side note: 
Craig Kimbrel is two saves shy of 100 for his career.
Jayson Werth is 15-for-39 (.385) with 3 HR and 11 RBI in his career against Tim Hudson, but is not in the lineup tonight due to a hamstring and an ankle injury (fouled ball off ankle in last night's game).
Gio Gonzalez is 2-3 with a 6.08 ERA in 5 career starts against the Braves.
Tim Hudson is 15-5 with an ERA of 2.60 in 27 career starts against the Nationals.

Monday, April 29, 2013

Series Preview: Washington Nationals (13-12) at Atlanta Braves (15-9)

Pitching Probables:
Mon - Stephen Strasburg (WSH) 1-4, 3.16 ERA vs. Julio Teheran (ATL) 1-0, 5.48 ERA
Tue - Gio Gonzalez (WSH) 2-1, 4.50 ERA vs. Tim Hudson (ATL) 2-1, 4.50 ERA
Wed - Jordan Zimmermann (WSH) 4-1, 2.00 ERA vs. Paul Maholm (ATL) 3-2, 3.30 ERA
Thurs - Dan Haren (WSH) 2-3, 6.29 ERA vs. Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-3, 3.26 ERA

Comparison by Position
C:
Kurt Suzuki (WSH) .241/.354/.463 2 HR 6 RBI
Wilson Ramos (WSH) .300/.391/.600 2 HR 3 RBI
Evan Gattis (ATL) .236/.291/.556 6 HR 14 RBI
Gerald Laird (ATL) .320/.393/.400 0 HR 4 RBI
1B:
Adam LaRoche (WSH) .135/.210/.270 3 HR 8 RBI
Freddie Freeman (ATL) .282/.378/.410 1 HR 9 RBI
2B:
Danny Espinosa (WSH) .178/.221/.356 2 HR 6 RBI
Dan Uggla (ATL) .160/.292/.333 4 HR 8 RBI
3B:
Anthony Rendon (WSH) .200/.304/.250 0 HR 1 RBI
Chris Johnson (ATL) .387/.410/.547 2 HR 8 RBI
Juan Francisco (ATL) .302/.333/.508 4 HR 11 RBI
SS:
Ian Desmond (WSH) .295/.313/.516 3 HR 8 RBI
Andrelton Simmons (ATL) .228/.295/.291 1 HR 7 RBI
LF:
Bryce Harper (WSH) .360/.444/.756 9 HR 18 RBI
Justin Upton (ATL) .307/.398/.773 12 HR 18 RBI
CF:
Denard Span (WSH) .278/.356/.322 0 HR 9 RBI
BJ Upton (ATL) .151/.229/.291 3 HR 5 RBI
RF:
Jayson Werth (WSH) .266/.317/.415 4 HR 10 RBI
Reed Johnson (ATL) .222/.276/.370 0 HR 0 RBI
Jordan Schafer (ATL) .320/.414/.360 0 HR 2 RBI

Preview:
The first time these two teams met this season back on April 12-14, Braves earned an impressive three-game sweep of the defending NL East Champs, but the Nats were not impressed by any means. After the sweep, Danny Espinosa believes his Nationals team is still the superior team. The Washington Post quoted Espinosa as saying, "They have come back on people. They are playing well. It doesn't last forever. So I'm not worried about it. I'm going to be real confident the next 16 games."
The first of those remaining 16 games comes on Monday night, when the Nationals begin a four-game series with the Braves at Turner Field. Pitching matchup Monday night will feature Nationals' ace Stephen Strasburg and Braves' Julio Teheran.
The Braves sweep of the Nationals two weeks ago was part of their 10-game winning streak, but has cooled off considerably since, losing seven of their last ten ballgames which includes being swept by the Tigers this past weekend in Detroit. Braves concluded a stretch of 16 of 18 games on the road in which they went 10-8. Nationals recently came out of their rough spell by taking 3 of 4 in the series against the Reds this past weekend in DC.
Stephen Strasburg (1-4, 3.16 ERA) will attempt to snap his four game losing streak. While his ERA is good, he has had almost no run support through five starts this season. In his last start against the Cardinals, he allowed three runs (all in the 1st inning) on five hits, walked a batter, and struck out seven as he took the loss and the Nats were swept by the Cardinals in the series. Stephen Strasburg owns a staggering 10.80 ERA in the 1st inning this season. Strasburg took a loss against the Braves on April 13th, allowing two unearned runs on five hits over six innings.
Julio Teheran (1-0, 5.48 ERA) earned his first win of 2013 in his previous outing against the Rockies, allowing a run on eight hits over seven strong innings. He battled nicely through the frigid conditions at Coors Field. Teheran has faced the Nationals this season, but earned a no decision as he gave up four runs on six hits in six innings as the Braves came back and won the game in 10 innings, 6-4.

Simmons starting to heat up:
Andrelton Simmons struggled in his first 15 games this season, hitting .188 and an on-base percentage of .259. Since then, he's beginning to warm up, going  8-for-25 (.320) in his last seven games.

Side note:
Nationals went 5-4 at Turner Field in 2012 which includes being swept by the Braves in a three-game series last September 14-16. Braves look to increase their home win streak against the Nationals.

Strasburg has given up 11 earned runs so far this season. ALL have come in either the 1st or 6th innings. In order to get to Strasburg, the Braves must score early and often.



Sunday, April 28, 2013

Game 24 Preview: Atlanta Braves (15-8) at Detroit Tigers (12-10)

First Pitch: 8:08 pm ET on ESPN

Pitching Probables: 
Mike Minor (ATL) 3-1 1.80 ERA
Doug Fister (DET) 3-0 2.00 ERA

Braves Starting Lineup (career vs. Fister):
Jordan Schafer - CF (N/A)
Tyler Pastornicky - 2B (N/A)
Justin Upton - LF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (N/A)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Evan Gattis - C (N/A)
Dan Uggla - DH (N/A)
Reed Johnson - RF (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)

Tigers Starting Lineup (career vs. Minor):
Austin Jackson - CF (N/A)
Torii Hunter - RF (N/A)
Miguel Cabrera - 3B (N/A)
Prince Fielder - 1B (3-3, 3 RBI)
Victor Martinez - DH (N/A)
Jhonny Peralta - SS (N/A)
Matt Tuiasosopo - LF (N/A)
Brayan Pena - C (N/A)
Omar Infante - 2B (4-12, 2B, 2 K)

Preview: 
Braves LHP Mike Minor and Tigers RHP Doug Fister square off in the final game of a three game series at Comerica Park tonight. Braves look to salvage the final game of the series before heading home. Mike Minor has been one of the league's top starters in the month of April going 3-1 with a 1.80 ERA in four starts. He allowed three runs on five hits, walked two, and struck five as the Braves won the game, 4-3 over the Rockies. 
Doug Fister has been just as impressive as Minor, going 3-0 with a 2.00 ERA in four starts. In his last start against the Angels, Fister allowed three unearned runs on five hits, walked two, and struck out five in seven innings as he took the no decision. Tigers lost 4-3 and were swept by the Angels. 

Braves conclude stretch of 16 of 18 games on the road:
Tonight's game ends a 10-game road trip and a stretch of 16 of 18 games on the road for the Braves.  During the current road trip, Braves have gone 3-6 and it seems as if the absurd amount of road games this month is wearing them down. Tigers have taken full advantage of that, outscoring the Braves 17-4 in the first two games of the series. Braves head home at the conclusion of tonight's game for a 7 game home stand against the Nationals and the Mets.

Justin Upton approaching all-time HR mark for April:
Justin Upton blasted his 12th HR of the season in yesterday's game, drawing him 2 home runs shy of tying the all-time record for the most home runs in April. which is held by Alex Rodriguez (2007) and Albert Pujols (2006). Upton has three more games this month in which to tie or break the record.

Side note: 
Braves are scuffling a bit, losing seven of their last ten ballgames after beginning the season 12-1.
Craig Kimbrel is just three saves shy of 100 for his career.
BJ Upton is out of the lineup tonight. He is 0-for-5 in his career vs. Fister.
Yesterday's 7-4 loss to the Tigers was the first time this season the Braves lost a game in which it homered.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Series Preview: Atlanta Braves at Detroit Tigers 4/26-4/28

Pitching Probables:
Fri: Paul Maholm (ATL) 3-1, 1.03 ERA vs. Anibal Sanchez (DET) 2-1, 1.75 ERA
Sat: Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-2, 2.16 ERA vs. Rick Porcello (DET) 0-2, 11.08 ERA
Sun: Mike Minor (ATL) 3-1, 1.80 ERA vs. Doug Fister (DET) 3-0, 2.00 ERA

Comparisons by Position:
C:
Evan Gattis (ATL) .246/.309/.607 6 HR 13 RBI
Alex Avila (DET) .177/.227/.274 2 HR 2 RBI
1B:
Freddie Freeman (ATL) .321/.424/.500 1 HR 8 RBI
Prince Fielder (DET) .311/.430/.595 5 HR 21 RBI
2B:
Dan Uggla (ATL) .185/.312/.385 4 HR 6 RBI
Omar Infante (DET) .284/.310/.313 0 HR 5 RBI
3B:
Chris Johnson (ATL) .397/.424/.556 2 HR 7 RBI
Juan Francisco (ATL) .316/.339/.544 4 HR 11 RBI
Miguel Cabrera (DET): .361/.432/.506 2 HR 20 RBI
SS:
Andrelton Simmons (ATL) .209/.289/.269 1 HR 7 RBI
Jhonny Peralta (DET) .299/.337/.390 1 HR 10 RBI
LF:
Justin Upton (ATL) .316/.402/.797 11 HR 16 RBI
Andy Dirks (DET) .167/.281/.188 0 HR 4 RBI
CF:
BJ Upton (ATL) .150/.225/.300 3 HR 5 RBI
Austin Jackson (DET) .277/.340/.372 1 HR 7 RBI
RF:
Jordan Schafer (ATL) .438/.550/.500 0 HR 2 RBI
Reed Johnson (ATL) .286/.318/.476 0 HR 0 RBI
Torii Hunter (DET) .373/.416/.518 1 HR 10 RBI
DH:
Victor Martinez (DET) .187/.279/.213 0 HR 6 RBI

Preview:

Paul Maholm gets the ball in the series opener against the Tigers on Friday night. Opposing him will be Tigers SP Anibal Sanchez. Maholm began the season on an incredible scoreless streak of 25 2/3 innings, which was the longest such streak to begin a season since 1966. Maholm took his first loss of the season in his last start against the Pirates, giving up three runs on four hits, walked three batters, and struck out five over six innings as the Braves fell to the Pirates, 3-1. In his career against the Tigers, Maholm is 0-1 with a 2.60 ERA in three starts.
Braves will face a familiar foe in Sanchez Friday night, who pitched for the Marlins from 2006 to 2012. In seventeen starts against the Braves, Sanchez is 4-11 with a 5.42 ERA. Safe to say that the Braves have touched him up over the years. Sanchez is off to an impressive start for the Tigers, posting a 1.75 ERA in four starts and has yet to allow a HR this season. In his last start against the Angels, Sanchez allowed three runs (two earned) on eleven hits, and struck out three over 6.2 innings. Tigers fell to the Angels 8-1 and were swept.

Brian McCann to make rehab start with Rome, Freddie Freeman looks to get going, Francisco to DH:

Perhaps Brian McCann is a couple weeks away from returning from shoulder surgery. He'll be playing in rehab games with the Rome Braves as he prepares to come back to the big league club.
Freddie Freeman returned Tuesday from his right obliques strain and went 1-for-6 in the doubleheader. Freeman finished the series going 2-for-11 from the plate. Freeman put good swings on the ball in the series, but to no avail. It's only a matter of time before those begin to drop for him.
With the Braves playing the Tigers in Detroit, Juan Francisco will be in the lineup tonight as the designated hitter. Francisco went 2-for-4 in Wednesday's game, his fourth multi-hit game over his last six ballgames.


Thursday, April 25, 2013

Jordan Schafer's Turnaround

Atlanta Braves selected Jordan Schafer in the third round of the 2005 MLB Draft. In 2008, he was suspended 50 games by the MLB after he was accused of using HGH. Schafer was named the Braves starting CF before the 2009 season, despite never having played at a higher level than AA. He made his major league debut on April 5, 2009 against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. In his first at-bat, he took Brett Myers deep for his first career HR, becoming the 99th player in MLB history to do so.

News Photo: Jordan Schafer of the Atlanta Braves bats against…
PHILADELPHIA - APRIL 05: Jordan Schafer #24 of the Atlanta Braves bats against the Philadelphia Phillies on April 5, 2009 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)


Schafer finished the game 2-for-3 with his solo HR, single, an intentional walk, and a strikeout. His future seemed bright, but that was not the case. Less than two months after making his major league debut, Schafer was optioned to AAA Gwinnett after hitting .204/.313/.287 with 2 HRs and 8 RBI in 50 games played. He did not return to the big league club until May of 2011. At the trade deadline in 2011, Schafer was part of the trade that was sent to the Houston Astros for Michael Bourn. In 30 games with the Astros that season, Schafer continued to struggle with a triple slash line of .245/.314/.311 1 HR and 6 RBI. 
That off season, Schafer got into trouble with the law. He was arrested on a felony marijuana charge. The St. Petersburg Times reported that Schafer was found with 25.9 grams of marijuana in his car, which carries a 3rd degree felony charge. 

News Photo: Jordan Schafer of the Atlanta Braves lays down…
DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Jordan Schafer #17 of the Atlanta Braves lays down a successful sacrifice bunt during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. The Braves defeated the Rockies 4-3 in the first game of a doubleheader. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images


This past off season, Braves claimed Schafer off waivers. Schafer realized he should not take his career for granted and came to spring training ready to go to work. His improvements showed this spring and made the big league club as the 5th outfielder. The thung I've noticed about Schafer is he is does not take anything granted and when he gets an opportunity to play, he has taken full advantage of it. So far this season in 12 games, he's hit .438/.550/.500 with 2 RBI and 3 stolen bases. He's realized that he may never get another opportunity like this and it is awesome to see him play the way he has this season.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Game 21 Preview: Atlanta Braves (15-5) at Colorado Rockies (13-7)

First Pitch: 3:10 pm ET on SportSouth

Pitching Probables:
Tim Hudson (ATL) 2-1, 4.50 ERA
Tyler Chatwood (COL) 0-0, 0.00 ERA

Braves Starting Lineup (career vs. Chatwood):
Ramiro Pena - SS (N/A)
BJ Upton - CF (2-3, 2B, RBI)
Justin Upton - LF (0-3, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-3, 2B, K)
Evan Gattis - C (N/A)
Juan Francisco - 3B (1-2, RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-3, K)
Jordan Schafer - RF (0-1)
Tim Hudson - P (N/A)

Rockies Starting Lineup (career vs. Hudson):
Eric Young - RF (0-3, K)
Dexter Fowler - CF (5-11, 2B, RBI, 2 K)
Carlos Gonzalez - LF (2-10, 2B, RBI, 2K)
Wilin Rosario - C (1-3)
Michael Cuddyer - 1B (4-14, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 K)
Josh Rutledge - 2B (1-4, K)
Chris Nelson - 3B (N/A)
Jonathan Herrera - SS (4-10, HR, RBI, 2B, 2 K)
Tyler Chatwood - P (N/A)

Preview:
Freezing temperatures couldn't stop the Braves offense yesterday as they swept the day-night doubleheader from Rockies. Braves will attempt to complete the three game sweep this afternoon at Coors Field. If the Braves were to win today, it would be their FOURTH sweep of the young season. Teams the Braves have swept this season include the Cubs at home and both the Marlins and Nationals on the road. Tim Hudson gets the ball today for the Braves in his second attempt to reach 200 career wins. In five starts at Coors Field, Hudson is 0-2 with a 8.04 ERA. Hudson is coming off a rough outing in Pittsburgh in which he allowed six runs on nine hits, gave up a HR, and struck out two in four innings.
After winning their first eight games at home this season, Rockies have lost three straight, but still sit atop the NL West, only a half game in front of the Giants. Tyler Chatwood will make his season debut for the Rockies this afternoon as they try to salvage a game in the series. Chatwood was called up to the majors when Rockies ace Jhoulys Chacin was put on the disabled list with a back strain.

Side note:
Since the beginning of the 2012 season, the Braves have dominated the Rockies, going 8-1.
While the Braves pitchers have quieted the Rockies bats, Colorado still second in the NL in runs scored (109).

(15-5) Atlanta Braves at (13-7) Colorado Rockies Recap

"DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Starting pitcher Julio Teheran #49 of the Atlanta Braves delivers to home plate during the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)"


After winning the first of their two-game double header against the Colorado Rockies earlier today, the Braves took the field looking to earn another road win in the night cap of the double header. In the first game,  the Braves used 3 home runs from the bats of Justin Upton, Dan Uggla, and Evan Gattis and a terrific start by Mike Minor to snap their modest three game losing streak with a 4-3 win over the Rockies. In the nightcap, young right hander, Julio Teheran will look to earn his first win of 2013. In his last start against the Pirates, Teheran gave up seven hits, four runs (all earned), walked three and struck out four through five innings. Teheran again received a no decision. Although the youngster has struggled through three starts, the Braves are a perfect 3-0. For the Colorado Rockies, Jon Garland would take the mound and look to extend his 2013 season record to an impressive 3-0 start. Garland spent most of his thirteen MLB seasons as a member of the White Sox. He's been solid over his career including winning a career high eighteen games in 2005 and 2006 with an all-star appearance. Garland has looked good in his three starts with the Rockies, posting a 2-0 record with a 3.32 ERA. In arguably his best start so far this season, Garland pitched seven strong innings, giving up six hits, two runs (both earned), and struck out four against the Mets. After an impressive start to today's games, the Braves will look to finish today off with another win out in Denver.


FIRST INNING:

Ramiro Pena would open Atlanta's first offensive stint with a double to right field with no outs. B. J. Upton lines into a double play, third baseman Reid Brignac to second baseman Josh Rutledge. Ramiro Pena doubled off 2nd for two outs. After Justin Upton walked, Freddie Freeman grounds out, second baseman Josh Rutledge to first baseman Jordan Pacheco and end the Braves threat. In Colorado's first offensive inning, Eric Young flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton for the first out. After Dexter Fowler singles on a ground ball to right fielder Jordan Schafer, the Rockies couldn't capitalize as Troy Tulowitzki strikes out swinging; followed by Michael Cuddyer grounds out, second baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the game was scoreless through the first inning.

SECOND INNING:

In Atlanta's second offensive stretch, Juan Francisco bunt grounds out, pitcher Jon Garland to first baseman Jordan Pacheco for the first out; followed by Gerald Laird grounds out softly, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco for the second out. Atlanta would keep the inning alive as Andrelton Simmons singles on a line drive to left fielder Eric Young and Jordan Schafer singles on a line drive to right fielder Michael Cuddyer. Andrelton Simmons to 2nd; however, With Julio Teheran batting, Jon Garland picks off Andrelton Simmons at 2nd on throw to Troy Tulowitzki to end the Braves threat. In the Rockies second offensive stretch, Jordan Pacheco singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Justin Upton; however, With Josh Rutledge batting, Julio Teheran picks off Jordan Pacheco at 1st on throw to Freddie Freeman. Josh Rutledge singled on a ground ball to right fielder Jordan Schafer to put one runner on with one out; and with Reid Brignac batting, missed catch error by Freddie Freeman on the pickoff attempt, Josh Rutledge to 2nd. However, the Rockies wouldn't capitalize as Reid Brignac grounds out, first baseman Freddie Freeman to pitcher Julio Teheran. Josh Rutledge to 3rd; followed by Yorvit Torrealba pops out to catcher Gerald Laird in foul territory and the game would remain scoreless.

THIRD INNING:

The Braves offense would go down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Julio Teheran grounds out, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco; followed by Ramiro Pena grounds out, pitcher Jon Garland to first baseman Jordan Pacheco and B. J. Upton grounds out, third baseman Reid Brignac to first baseman Jordan Pacheco. In Colorado's next offensive stint, Jon Garland grounds out softly, second baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Eric Young singles on a ground ball to second baseman Ramiro Pena; followed by Troy Tulowitzki lines out softly to shortstop Andrelton Simmons. Colorado would capitalize as Michael Cuddyer singles on a ground ball to left fielder Justin Upton. Eric Young scores. Dexter Fowler to 2nd as the Rockies took a 1-0 lead with two outs. Colorado's inning would end as Jordan Pacheco flies out to center fielder B.J. Upton and would take a 1-0 lead into the fourth inning.

FOURTH INNING:
"DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Jordan Schafer #17 of the Atlanta Braves hits an RBI single during the the fourth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)"


Atlanta's fourth inning would be a huge offensive one after Justin Upton pops out to second baseman Josh Rutledge. After Freddie Freeman walks, Juan Francisco homered on a fly ball to right field and Freddie Freeman would also score and give the Braves a 2-1 lead with one out. Gerald Laird singled on a line drive to left fielder Eric Young with one out and with Andrelton Simmons batting, Gerald Laird steals 2nd base. Andrelton Simmons grounds out, third baseman Reid Brignac to first baseman Jordan Pacheco for the second out. Jordan Schafer singled on a line drive to center fielder Dexter Fowler. Gerald Laird scored giving the Braves a 3-1 lead. After Julio Teheran singles on a line drive to right fielder Michael Cuddyer. Jordan Schafer to 2nd, the inning would come to an end as Ramiro Pena grounds out, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco. Colorado would be retired in a 1-2-3 fashion as Josh Rutledge flies out to right fielder Jordan Schafer; followed by Reid Brignac grounding out, pitcher Julio Teheran to first baseman Freddie Freeman and finally Yorvit Torrealba flied out to center fielder B. J. Upton as the Braves took a 3-1 lead into the next inning.

FIFTH INNING:
"DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Justin Upton #8 of the Atlanta Braves is greeted by third base coach Brian Snitker #51 after hitting a solo home run during the fifth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)"

Atlanta's offense would get a huge boost to start the next inning as B. J. Upton homered for the third time this season on a fly ball to left field to give the Braves a 4-1 lead; followed by his brother Justin Upton homered for the eleventh time this year on a fly ball to right center field and increased the lead to 5-1 and that would be all of the offense for the inning as Freddie Freeman lined out to third baseman Reid Brignac; followed by Juan Francisco called out on strikes and Gerald Laird flied out to left fielder Eric Young. In the Rockies next offensive stint, Jon Garland grounds out, pitcher Julio Teheran to shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman for the first out. After Eric Young singles on a ground ball to right fielder Jordan Schafer and would steal second base with one out, the Rockies couldn't capitalize as Dexter Fowler flies out to right fielder Jordan Schafer followed by Troy Tulowitzki flyng out to center fielder B. J. Upton and Atlanta would take their 5-1 lead into the next inning.

SIXTH INNING:

Andrelton Simmons started the Braves next offensive inning with a single on a bunt ground ball to third baseman Reid Brignac followed by a Jordan Schafer walk advancing Andrelton Simmons to 2nd. After Julio Teheran out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Yorvit Torrealba to second baseman Josh Rutledge. Andrelton Simmons to 3rd. Jordan Schafer to 2nd. After Ramiro Pena walked, B. J. Upton out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Dexter Fowler. Andrelton Simmons scores and give the Braves a 6-1 lead with two outs; however, Atlanta's threat would end as Justin Upton flies out to center fielder Dexter Fowler. In the Rockies next offensive stint, Michael Cuddyer lines out to right fielder Jordan Schafer. After Jordan Pacheco singled on a line drive to left fielder Justin Upton with one out, Josh Rutledge grounds into a force out, third baseman Juan Francisco to second baseman Ramiro Pena. Jordan Pacheco out at 2nd. Josh Rutledge to 1st and the inning would come to an end as Reid Brignac grounds out, second baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Braves maintained their 6-1 lead to the seventh inning.

SEVENTH INNING:

As the Braves offense started the next inning, Josh Outman replaced Jon Garland, batting 7th, replacing third baseman Reid Brignac. The Braves would go down in 1-2-3 fashion as Freddie Freeman struck out swinging; followed by Juan Francisco grounds out softly, second baseman Josh Rutledge to first baseman Jordan Pacheco and Gerald Laird struck out swinging for the last out. Colorado would also be retired in a 1-2-3 fashion as Yorvit Torrealba was called out on strikes; followed by Jonathan Herrera grounding out, first baseman Freddie Freeman to pitcher Julio Teheran and Eric Young struck out swinging to end the inning and the Braves maintained their 6-1 lead into the eighth inning.

EIGHTH INNING:

Similar to the seventh inning, the Braves would be retired in a 1-2-3 fashion as Andrelton Simmons grounds out, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco; followed by Jordan Schafer striking out swinging and Tyler Pastornicky, who pinched hit for Julio Tehran after pitching (7.0) innings, allowed (8) hits and one run but issued three strike outs, flied out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer to record the final out. The Rockies would face reliever Cory Gearrin and didn't pose much of a threat to him as Dexter Fowler grounded out, second baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman; followed by Troy Tulowitzki strikes out swinging. After Michael Cuddyer singles on a soft line drive to right fielder Jordan Schafer, Jordan Pacheco popped out to second baseman Ramiro Pena and the Braves held a 6-1 lead into the final inning.

NINTH INNING:

Atlanta would pour on more runs in the last inning as Ramiro Pena singled on a line drive to center fielder Dexter Fowler with no outs. After B. J. Upton strikes out swinging, his brother Justin Upton doubled on a line drive to left fielder Eric Young. Ramiro Pena scores to give the Braves a 7-1 lead with one out. After Freddie Freeman walked to place two men on with one out, Juan Francisco doubled on a line drive to right fielder Michael Cuddyer. Justin Upton scores. Freddie Freeman to 3rd and the Braves extended their lead to 8-1 and still only had one out. After the Rockies replaced Josh Outman with reliever Wilton Lopez, Atlanta would still capitalize on more runs as Gerald Laird singled on a line drive to left fielder Eric Young. Freddie Freeman scores. Juan Francisco scores to push the Braves lead to 10-1. The Braves threat would come to an end as Andrelton Simmons flies out to left fielder Eric Young followed by Jordan Schafer grounding into a force out, second baseman Josh Rutledge to shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. Gerald Laird out at 2nd. In Colorado's last at-bat, Josh Rutledge grounds out, second baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman to earn the first out; followed by Chris Nelson flies out to right fielder Jordan Schafer. The Rockies would generate a little offense with two outs as Yorvit Torrealba singles on a ground ball to center fielder B. J. Upton followed by a Jonathan Herrera single on a line drive to center fielder B. Upton. Yorvit Torrealba to 2nd. Colorado would capitalize as Eric Young singles on a ground ball to center fielder B. J. Upton. Yorvit Torrealba scores. Jonathan Herrera to 2nd to cut Atlanta's lead to 10-2 and the game would end as Dexter Fowler flies out to left fielder Reed Johnson as the Braves would win both games of the doubleheader.

WINNING PITCHER: 

Julio Teheran (1-0): 

(7.0) innings, allowed (8) hits and one earned run, issued three strike outs

LOSING PITCHER:

Jon Garland (2-1):

(6.0) innings, allowed (10) hits, (6) earned runs, (4) walks, (3) home runs and issued one strike-out


PLAYERS OF THE GAME:

Julio Teheran/Braves Offense:

After a rough start to the 2013 MLB season, Julio Teheran finally earned his first win of the 2013 season. In tonight's game, he cooled off an explosive Colorado offense in (7.0) innings, allowed (8) hits and one earned run, issued three strike outs. Although he seemed a little tense early, he settled in and prevented the Rockies from having any chance of winning tonight's contest. Teheran is still young; however, tonight's game could be a turning point for the young prospect as he look to make an impact as the Braves #5 starting pitcher. The entire Braves offense receives credit for tonight's victory. Although there were certain members of the offense whom delivered a big impact for tonight's game such as Juan Francisco, who hit (2-5) and accounted for three RBI's and a two run home run in tonight's win and Justin Upton's (2-4) night with two RBI's including a solo home run in the fifth inning to help extend the Braves lead. The Braves offense accounted for (3) home runs and (14) hits and every starter except Freddie Freeman earned a base hit. 

CONCLUSION:

Atlanta's victory gave them a double-header sweep against the Colorado Rockies and the Braves would look to end the series with a sweep as Tim Hudson would take the mound tomorrow at 3:00 PM. Atlanta continues to be one of the most impressive teams around the majors to open the 2013 season and tonight's win displayed how special this unit could be throughout the season. Each night, the Braves are showing the nation that they can win ball games in many different aspects and tomorrow, they will look to extend their winning streak to a three games in a row. Until tomorrow, GO BRAVES!!!!

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Game 20 preview: Atlanta Braves (14-5) at Colorado Rockies (13-6)

First Pitch: 8:40 pm ET on SportSouth

Pitching Probables:
Julio Teheran (ATL) 0-0, 7.31 ERA
Jon Garland (COL) 2-0, 3.32 ERA

Braves Starting Lineup:
Ramiro Pena - 2B
BJ Upton - CF
Justin Upton - LF
Freddie Freeman - 1B
Juan Francisco - 3B
Gerald Laird - C
Andrelton Simmons - SS
Jordan Schafer - RF
Julio Teheran - P

Rockies Starting Lineup:
Eric Young - LF
Dexter Fowler - CF
Troy Tulowitzki - SS
Michael Cuddyer - RF
Jordan Pacheco - 1B
Josh Rutledge - 2B
Reid Brignac - 3B
Yorvit Torrealba - C
Jon Garland - P

Preview:
In the first game of the doubleheader, the Braves used 3 home runs from the bats of Justin Upton, Dan Uggla, and Evan Gattis and a terrific start by Mike Minor to snap their modest three game losing streak with a 4-3 win over the Rockies. In the nightcap, young right hander, Julio Teheran will look to earn his first win of 2013. In his last start against the Pirates, Teheran gave up seven hits, four runs (all earned), walked three and struck out four through five innings. Teheran again received a no decision. Although the youngster has struggled through three starts, the Braves are a perfect 3-0. Opposing Teheran will be veteran righty, Jon Garland.
Garland spent most of his thirteen MLB seasons as a member of the White Sox. He's been solid over his career including winning a career high eighteen games in 2005 and 2006 with an all-star appearance. Garland has looked good in his three starts with the Rockies, posting a 2-0 record with a 3.32 ERA. In arguably his best start so far this season, Garland pitched seven strong innings, giving up six hits, two runs (both earned), and struck out four against the Mets.

Side note:
Braves pitching staff comes into play tonight with an ERA of 2.36, which is the best in baseball. That continued in the first game of the doubleheader as Minor pitched six strong innings, giving up five hits on three runs (all earned), walked two, and struck out five. The trio of Luis Avilan, Eric O'Flaherty, and Craig Kimbrel shut down the Rockies bats in innings 7-9, giving up only one hit.

Game One: (14-5) Atlanta Braves at (13-6) Colorado Rockies Recap

"DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Starting pitcher Mike Minor #36 of the Atlanta Braves delivers to home plate during the second inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)"



After a tough series loss against the Pittsburgh Pirates and having an extra day off due to a snow storm preventing the Braves from taking the field in Colorado last night, Atlanta begins their series against the Colorado Rockies in a double header this afternoon in very cold conditions. Atlanta and Colorado are tied with the best record in the majors with a outstanding record of (13-5) clashing for a three game series in Denver. The Colorado Rockies are off to a red-hot start, winning eight out of their last nine games while the Braves started 12-1 and have started to cool off, losing four out of their last five games including losing three of four to the Pirates over the weekend. Braves will send  Mike Minor to the mound, who will look to rebound from a tough 1-0 loss to the Kansas City Royals as he pitched six innings while giving up five, hits, gave a run (earned), and struck out five. The offense failed to give their starting pitcher any run support as the Braves had their 10-game winning streak snapped. Opposing Minor will be veteran SP Jeff Francis. In his last start against the New York Mets, Francis struggled mightily, giving up nine hits on eight runs (six earned), walked four and struck out four in 4.1 innings pitched, but the Rockies came back from a 8-2 deficit to win the game. Also, today's game will mark the return of Freddie Freeman to Atlanta's lineup after being be activated from the 15-day disabled list after missing thirteen games with a right oblique strain suffered on April 6th against the Chicago Cubs. Also, Jason Heyward underwent an emergency appendectomy last night and will be put on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to Sunday. The earliest he would be activated is on May 5th. Tyler Pastornicky has been called up from AAA Gwinnett to take Heyward's roster spot. Reed Johnson will start in RF in the first game of the doubleheader. In this clash of two great National League teams, Atlanta would look to earn a win against the Rockies and stop their three game losing streak.


FIRST INNING:

In the Braves first offensive stretch of this game, Andrelton Simmons popped out to catcher Wilin Rosario in foul territory for the first out of the game; followed by B. J. Upton grounding out, third baseman Chris Nelson to first baseman Jordan Pacheco for the second out. Atlanta would strike first as Justin Upton homered on a line drive to center field to give the Braves a 1-0 lead. It was Justin Upton's tenth home run of the season. The inning for the Braves would end after Freddie Freeman flies out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer and Atlanta took their lead into the bottom of the inning. Mike Minor would get an easy 1-2-3 inning as Dexter Fowler grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman for the first out; followed by Josh Rutledge flying out to right fielder Reed Johnson and finally, Carlos Gonzalez lines out to left fielder Justin Upton as the Braves would take a 1-0 lead into the next inning.

SECOND INNING:

As the Braves offense came to bat for the second time, Chris Johnson continued his hot month of April with a single on a ground ball to center fielder Dexter Fowler with no outs. After Evan Gattis struck out swinging, the Braves would capitalize again as Dan Uggla homered on a fly ball to center field also scoring Chris Johnson to give Atlanta a 3-0 lead. It was Dan Uggla's fourth home run of the 2013 season. Reed Johnson singled on a soft ground ball to second baseman Josh Rutledge to put a runner on with one out. Mike Minor out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Jeff Francis to second baseman Josh Rutledge. Reed Johnson to 2nd as the Braves earn their second out; however, the inning would end as Andrelton Simmons pops out to first baseman Jordan Pacheco and the Braves took a 3-0 lead. In the Rockies next offensive stint, Troy Tulowitzki opened the inning with a walk and Michael Cuddyer doubled on a line drive to center fielder B. J. Upton advancing Troy Tulowitzki to 3rd with no outs. Wilin Rosario grounds out sharply, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Troy Tulowitzki scored to cut the lead to 3-1 with one out in the inning. Jordan Pacheco singles on a ground ball to center fielder B.J Upton. Michael Cuddyer scores and trimmed the lead to 3-2 with one out. Mike Minor would respond by striking out Chris Nelson and Jeff Francis and Atlanta took their 3-2 lead into the next inning.

THIRD INNING:

B. J. Upton started the Braves next offensive stretch as he lined out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer for the first out of the frame. Justin Upton would strike out swinging for the second out of the inning. Freddie Freeman would keep the inning alive as he walked; however, the Braves offensive stretch would end as Chris Johnson struck out swinging. The Rockies would open their next offensive stretch with a Dexter Fowler triple on a line drive to right fielder Reed Johnson with no outs. Josh Rutledge singles on a soft ground ball to second baseman Dan Uggla. Dexter Fowler scores and ties the game at 3-3. Carlos Gonzalez would strike out swinging. Josh Rutledge steals  2nd base as the Rockies would place a runner in scoring position with one out. Troy Tulowitzki flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton. Josh Rutledge to 3rd with two outs. Michael Cuddyer walked to place runners on the corners with two outs. Wilin Rosario grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Braves and Rockies were tied heading into the fourth inning.

FOURTH INNING:

"DENVER, CO - APRIL 23: Evan Gratis #24 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates his solo home run with third base coach Brian Snitker #51during the fourth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 23, 2013 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)"
Evan Gattis would open the fourth inning with a homer on a fly ball to left field to give the Braves a 4-3 lead with no outs. After Dan Uggla strikes out swinging, Reed Johnson doubled on a sharp ground ball to left fielder Carlos Gonzalez with one out. Mike Minor grounds out, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco. Reed Johnson to 3rd for the second out. Andrelton Simmons walked with two outs and B. J. Upton strikes out swinging as the Braves took a 4-3 lead. As Colorado started their next offensive stretch, Jordan Pacheco flies out softly to right fielder Reed Johnson for the first out; followed by Chris Nelson striking out swinging for the second out and finally, Jeff Francis lines out softly to shortstop Andrelton Simmons as the Braves forced Colorado into a 1-2-3 inning and the Braves lead 4-3 into the next inning.

FIFTH INNING:

In the Braves next offensive stint, relief pitcher Rob Scahill would take over for Jeff Francis and would earn a 1-2-3 inning as Justin Upton grounds out, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to first baseman Jordan Pacheco followed by Freddie Freeman flies out to center fielder Dexter Fowler and Chris Johnson grounds out, third baseman Chris Nelson to first baseman Jordan Pacheco as the Braves maintained their lead. After Dexter Fowler singles on a line drive to left fielder Justin Upton with no outs. Mike Minor would retire the next three batters as Josh Rutledge out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Evan Gattis to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Dexter Fowler to 2nd; followed by Carlos Gonzalez pops out to shortstop Andrelton Simmons for the second out and finally, Troy Tulowitzki flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton and Atlanta got a 1-2-3 inning as they maintained a 4-3 lead heading into the next inning. 

SIXTH INNING:

In Atlanta's sixth offensive stretch, Evan Gattis lines out to third baseman Chris Nelson for the first out; followed by Dan Uggla called out on strikes. Reed Johnson kept his inning alive as he doubled on a line drive to center fielder Dexter Fowler and the Braves inning would end as Mike Minor flies out to center fielder Dexter Fowler. Mike Minor would get yet another 1-2-3 inning against Colorado as Michael Cuddyer strikes out swinging; followed by Wilin Rosario flies out softly to center fielder B. J. Upton for the second out and finally Jordan Pacheco flies out to right fielder Reed Johnson and the Braves took a 4-3 lead into the seventh inning.

SEVENTH INNING:

The Braves would open the seventh inning with Andrelton Simmons flying out softly to right fielder Michael Cuddyer for the first out. B. J. Upton strikes out swinging for the second out and Justin Upton grounds out, second baseman Josh Rutledge to first baseman Jordan Pacheco as Atlanta's offense went out in a 1-2-3 fashion. As the Rockies went on offense, the Braves would change pitchers as Luis Avilan replaced Mike Minor as he finished the night with (6.0) innings pitched, allowed (5) hits, (3) earned runs, and (2) walks and threw (5) strike outs. Luis Avilan would send the Rockies down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Chris Nelson flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton, followed by Eric Young grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman and finally, Dexter Fowler grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Braves took their 4-3 lead into the eighth inning.

EIGHTH INNING:

As the Braves started their next offensive stint, Edgmer Escalona replaced Rob Scahill at pitcher and Freddie Freeman opened the inning with a  single on a line drive to center fielder Dexter Fowler. After Freeman singled, the Braves didn't capitalized as the next three batters would be retired as Chris Johnson flies out to right fielder Michael Cuddyer for the first out, followed by Evan Gattis flies out to left fielder Carlos Gonzalez and Dan Uggla strikes out swinging for the final out. For Atlanta, Eric O'Flaherty replaced Luis Avilan at pitcher and would retire the Rockies side in a 1-2-3 fashion as Josh Rutledge grounds out, pitcher Eric O'Flaherty to first baseman Freddie Freeman; followed by Carlos Gonzalez grounds out, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman and finally, Troy Tulowitzki grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman as the Braves took a 4-3 lead into the final inning.

NINTH INNING:

In the Braves final offensive stretch, Reed Johnson doubled on a ground ball to left fielder Carlos Gonzalez, deflected by third baseman Chris Nelson with no outs; however, Atlanta would   not capitalize on their runner as Jordan Schafer out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Edgmer Escalona to second baseman Josh Rutledge. Reed Johnson to 3rd followed by Andrelton Simmons pops out to shortstop Troy Tulowitzki for the second out and B. J. Upton struck out swinging and the Braves took a 4-3 lead into the last Rockies offensive stretch. Craig Kimbrel replaces Eric O'Flaherty, batting 9th, replacing Jordan Schafer. For the Rockies, Michael Cuddyer struck out swinging for the first out. Wilin Rosario would single on a sharp ground ball to center fielder B. J. Upton with one runner on with one out. Jordan Pacheco was called out on strikes for the second out. With Chris Nelson batting, Wilin Rosario caught stealing 2nd base, catcher Evan Gattis to second baseman Dan Uggla and the Braves would win by a final score of 4-3.

WINNING PITCHER:

Mike Minor (3-1): (6.0) innings pitched, allowed (5) hits, (3) earned runs, and (2) walks and issued (5) strike outs.

LOSING PITCHER:

Jeff Francis (1-2): (4.0) innings pitched, allowed (6) hits, (4) earned runs, and (2) walks and issued (5) strike outs.

SAVE:

Craig Kimbrel (8)

PLAYERS OF THE GAME:

Mike Minor/Reed Johnson:

Mike Minor pitched a good game today in Colorado's tough conditions such as in this game as his stat line was (6.0) innings pitched, allowed (5) hits, (3) earned runs, and (2) walks and issued (5) strike outs. Despite the Rockies putting together a rally early in the game, Minor would handle the pressure well and stop the Colorado offense from continuing their offensive dominance and he earned a gutsy win for the Braves this afternoon. Reed Johnson, who was playing right field today after Jason Heyward went on the 15-Day DL earlier today had a great game as he posted (4-4) with three singles and one double. As the Braves will be without Jason Heyward, Reed Johnson will be called on to give the team the lift offensively and today's game was a positive sign that the Braves could manage without Heyward until he gets healthy and that's what makes the 2013 Atlanta Braves team special, there are so many options that can step up and provide a huge impact for Atlanta.


CONCLUSION:

The Braves earned a huge road victory and ended Atlanta's three-game losing streak and will look to continue their great start to the season in a few hours from now as they will play their second game of the double header tonight as Julio Tehran will take the mound for the Braves and Jon Garland would counter part for the Rockies at 8:40 P.M. GO BRAVES!!!!! 

Game 19 Preview: Atlanta Braves (13-5) at Colorado Rockies (13-5)

First Pitch: 3:10 pm ET on SportSouth

Pitching Probables:
Mike Minor (ATL) 2-1, 0.95 ERA
Jeff Francis (COL) 1-1, 8.25 ERA

Braves Starting Lineup:
Andrelton Simmons - SS
BJ Upton - CF
Justin Upton - LF
Freddie Freeman - 1B
Chris Johnson - 3B
Evan Gattis - C
Dan Uggla - 2B
Reed Johnson - RF
Mike Minor - P

Rockies Starting Lineup:
Dexter Fowler - CF
Josh Rutledge - 2B
Carlos Gonzalez - LF
Troy Tulowitzki - SS
Michael Cuddyer - RF
Wilin Rosario - C
Jordan Pacheco - 1B
Chris Nelson - 3B
Jeff Francis - P

Preview:
After being snowed out yesterday, the Braves and Rockies will play in a day-night doubleheader with the first pitch of game 1 at 3:10 ET and game 2 starting approximately at 8:40 pm ET. Mike Minor looks to halt the Braves 3-game skid. Opposing Minor will be veteran lefty Jeff Francis. The red-hot Rockies come in as winners of eight of their last nine ball games and are tied with the Braves for the best record in baseball.

Freddie Freeman in lineup:
As expected, Freddie Freeman was activated from the 15-day disabled list yesterday and will be hitting cleanup in today's lineup. In the thirteen games in which Freeman missed due to a strained right oblique, the braves went 9-4, with three of those loss coming this past weekend in Pittsburgh. Chris Johnson is assumed to be the primary third basemen with Freeman back in the lineup. Johnson comes into play today leading the NL in hitting (.407 avg).

Jason Heyward to DL, Pastornicky called up:
Jason Heyward underwent an emergency appendectomy last night and will be put on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to Sunday. The earliest he would be activated is on May 5th. Tyler Pastornicky has been called up from AAA Gwinnett to take Heyward's roster spot. Reed Johnson will start in RF in the first game of the doubleheader.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Series Preview: Atlanta Braves (13-5) at Colorado Rockies (13-5) (4/22-4/24)

Pitching Probables:
Mon: Mike Minor (ATL) 2-1, 0.95 ERA vs. Jeff Francis (COL) 1-1, 8.25 ERA
Tue: Julio Teheran (ATL) 0-0, 7.31 ERA vs. Jon Garland (COL) 2-0, 3.32 ERA
Wed: Tim Hudson (ATL) 2-1, 4.50 ERA vs. TBA

Comparisons by Position:
C:
Evan Gattis (ATL) : .250/.322/.596 5 HR 12 RBI
Wilin Rosario (COL): .302/.327/.547 4 HR 13 RBI
1B:
Freddie Freeman (ATL): .412/.474/.647 1 HR 7 RBI
Todd Helton (COL): .268/.333/.415 1 HR 10 RBI
2B:
Dan Uggla (ATL): .161/.309/.321 3 HR 4 RBI
Josh Rutledge (COL): .226/.300/.355 2 HR 5  RBI
3B:
Chris Johnson (ATL): .407/.435/.576 2 HR 7 RBI
Chris Nelson (COL): .269/.316/.327 0 HR 4 RBI
SS:
Andrelton Simmons (ATL): .211/.292/.281 1 HR 7 RBI
Troy Tulowitzki (COL): .328/.400/.690 6 HR 17 RBI
LF:
Justin Upton (ATL): .299/.385/.761 9 HR 13 RBI
Carlos Gonzalez (COL): .364/.442/.667 4 HR 12 RBI
CF:
BJ Upton (ATL): .167/.247/.303 2 HR 3 RBI
Dexter Fowler (COL): .250/.348/.633 7 HR 10 RBI
RF:
Jason Heyward (ATL): .121/.261/.259 2 HR 5 RBI
Michael Cuddyer (COL): .333/.403/.617 4 HR 13 RBI

Series Preview:
Two teams tied with the best record in all of baseball will clash for a three game series in Denver beginning tonight. Rockies are off to a red-hot start, winning eight out of their last nine games while the Braves started 12-1 and have started to cool off, losing four out of their last five games including losing three of four to the Pirates over the weekend. Braves will send out Mike Minor, Julio Teheran, and Tim Hudson in the series. Jeff Francis and Jon Garland will start Monday and Tuesday night's game for Colorado. Rockies have yet to name a starter for Wednesday's finale.
Mike Minor took and unfortunate 1-0 loss in his last start against the Royals. Minor pitched six innings while giving up five, hits, gave a run (earned), and struck out five. The offense failed to give their starting pitcher any run support as the Braves had their 10-game winning streak snapped. Opposing Minor will be veteran SP Jeff Francis. In his last start against the Mets, Francis struggled mightily, giving up nine hits on eight runs (six earned), walked four and struck out four in 4.1 innings pitched, but the Rockies came back from a 8-2 deficit to win the game.

Freddie Freeman set to return:
Freddie Freeman is expected to be activated from the 15-day disabled list after missing thirteen games with a right oblique strain suffered on April 6th against the Cubs. Freeman will hit cleanup in tonight's game which moves Chris Johnson back to third. It is assumed Johnson will be the primary third basemen with Freeman back in the lineup. Chris Johnson will enter play tonight leading the NL in hitting with a .407 batting average.

Side note:
The Braves 3-1 loss on Saturday and 4-2 loss on Sunday marked the first two times in which the Braves have lost a game when scoring at least a run.
The Rockies starting pitching has been absolutely brilliant through the first eighteen games of the season, posting 11 quality starts and has an ERA of 3.75 which ranks 12th in the MLB. This is extremely impressive with the Rockies playing their home games in the thin air of Denver.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Game 16 Preview: Atlanta Braves (13-2) at Pittsburgh Pirates (7-8)

First Pitch: 7:05 pm ET on FS South/MLB Network

Pitching Probables:
Tim Hudson (ATL) 2-0, 2.50 ERA
Wandy Rodriguez (PIT) 1-0, 1.00 ERA

Braves Starting Lineup:
BJ Upton - CF
Jason Heyward - RF
Justin Upton - LF
Evan Gattis - 1B
Chris Johnson - 3B
Dan Uggla - 2B
Andrelton Simmons - SS
Gerald Laird - C
Tim Hudson - P

Pirates Starting Lineup:
Jose Tabata - LF
Travis Snider - RF
Andrew McCutchen - CF
Garrett Jones - 1B
Neil Walker - 2B
Pedro Alvarez - 3B
Russell Martin - C
John McDonald - SS
Wandy Rodriguez - P

Tonight's Preview: Hudson going for 200th win
Tim Hudson earned his first career win on June 13, 1999, pitching seven strong innings while giving up seven hits, two runs (one earned), walked two batters, and struck out eight. Tonight, Hudson will try to reach a significant milestone as he will go for win number 200 in his illustrious career. If he indeed wins his 200th game tonight, Hudson will become the third active pitcher to reach the milestone (Andy Pettitte, Roy Halladay). Another amazing feat about Hudson's career is that he has NEVER had a losing season in his 14-year career. In his previous start against the Nationals last Saturday, Hudson pitched seven spectacular innings, giving up four hits, one run (earned), and struck out three as he won his second game of the season, the 199th victory of his career.
Opposing Tim Hudson tonight will be Pirates starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez, who make his first start since straining his hamstring on April 8th against the D-Backs. In that start, Rodriguez lasted only 2.1 innings before leaving the game with the aforementioned injury. In his only win of the season, Rodriguez pitched 6.2 scoreless innings while giving up only two hits, walked a batter, and struck out six against the Cubs on April 3rd.

Laird behind the plate, Gattis to play 1B:
For the first time this season, Gerald Laird will make his second consecutive start behind the plate and Evan Gattis will play first base tonight for the second time this season. Laird has had some success against Wandy Rodriguez, going 4-for-7 with a double. The NL's leading hitter, Chris Johnson, will play 3B tonight, pushing Juan Francisco to the bench with a lefty on the mound in Wandy Rodriguez.

Game 15 Recap: Atlanta Braves (13-2) at Pittsburgh Pirates (7-8)

Braves began their 10 game road trip that would span the cities of Pittsburgh, Denver, and Detroit after splitting a two game series at home against the Royals. Julio Teheran looked to get his first win of 2013 after his previous two starts resulted in no decisions. Jeff Locke got the ball for the Pirates tonight as he looks to build off of his strong start in which he defeated the Reds.

First Inning:

News Photo: Upton of the Atlanta Braves rounds third base…


PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 18: B.J. Upton #2 of the Atlanta Braves rounds third base after hitting a lead-off home run in the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 18, 2013 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Braves were shutout in Wednesday's loss to the Royals. BJ Upton quickly got the Braves on the board with a lead off solo HR to LF, his 2nd of the season. Jason Heyward and Justin Upton each struck out to pick up the first two outs of the inning. Chris Johnson then lined a single to CF. Dan Uggla flied out to Travis Snider to end the Braves 1st. Julio Teheran took the mound for his third start of the season and quickly struck out Starling Marte. Teheran then found himself in trouble as he allowed a walk to Travis Snider and Andrew McCutchen hit a bloop double to RF. With runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out, Garrett Jones hit a sacrifice fly to BJ Upton, scoring Snider to tie the game 1-1. Neil Walker followed with a 5-pitch walk, but Teheran got out of the inning when Pedro Alvarez grounded out to Uggla.

Second Inning: 
Jeff Locke went back on the mound for his second inning of work and gave up a lead off single to Juan Francisco. On a 1-1 count to Simmons, he hits into a 5-4 fielder's choice. With Gerald Laird at the plate, Simmons was caught trying to steal 2B for the second out of the inning. Laird then forced a 2-out walk before Teheran flied out to Snider to end the inning. In the bottom half of the inning, Teheran gave up a solo HR to Russell Martin, giving the Pirates the 2-1 lead. Clint Barmes and Jeff Locke followed with consecutive ground outs. Teheran struck out Starling Marte for the second time to end the second inning.

Third Inning:

News Photo: Chris Johnson of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after…

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 18: Chris Johnson #23 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after hitting a two-run home run in the second inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the game on April 18, 2013 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

BJ Upton and Heyward began the third inning with 2 quick ground outs. Justin Upton forced a 4-pitch, 2-out walk. On a 1-0 count to Chris Johnson, he laced a towering 2-run homer to dead CF to give the Braves a 3-2 lead. Uggla followed with a ground out to Neil Walker to end the Braves half of the third. Teheran again found himself in trouble as he gave up a lead off double to Travis Snider. McCutchen flied out to Justin Upton in LF, keeping Snider at 2B with 1 out. On a 1-1 pitch to Garrett Jones, Teheran hits him, putting runners on 1st and 2nd. Neil Walker then ground into the inning-ending 6-4-3 double play. Braves led 3-2 after three.

Fourth Inning:
Juan Francisco led off the fourth with a ground out to Barmes. Andrelton Simmons flied out to Marte for the second out. Laird then reached 1B on a fielding error by Pedro Alvarez. Teheran followed with an infield single and suddenly the Braves were threatening with two outs. Locke put an end to that rally as he struck out BJ to end the inning. Pedro Alvarez led off the Pirates half of the 4th with a solo shot to CF to tie the game 3-3. Teheran then hit Russell Martin, his second hit batter of the night. Clint Barmes followed with a fly out to BJ Upton in CF for the first out. Locke moved Martin over to 2B with a sacrifice bunt. For the third time in the game, Teheran struck out Marte to end the fourth.

Fifth Inning:
Jason Heyward led off the fifth with a fly out to Snider in RF. Justin Upton then ripped a solo homer to LF for his 9th 4-bagger of the season, giving the Braves a 4-3 lead. Chris Johnson followed with a base on balls, but is gunned down by Russell Martin as he was trying to move to 2B on the wild pitch by Locke. Uggla forced a 5-pitch walk with two outs. Pirates manager Clint Hurdle decided to go into his bullpen early and Justin Wilson came in to finish the inning. On Wilson's second pitch of the night, Francisco grounded out to Walker at 2B to end the top half of the fifth inning. Teheran again allows a lead off baserunner with a Travis Snider double to RF. Snider then moved to 3B on Teheran's wild pitch. McCutchen was unable to bring the runner home as he grounded out to Francisco at 3B. Garrett Jones was able to bring Snider home as he hit a 2-out double to RF, tying the game 4-4. Teheran struck out Neil Walker for the second out and intentionally walked Pedro Alvarez to bring up Russell Martin. Martin made him pay by reaching on an infield single, loading the bases for Clint Barmes. Barmes could not break the game open as he flied out to BJ to end the inning.

Sixth Inning:
The sixth inning started off nicely for the Braves as Simmons earned himself a 5-pitch walk. Laird laid down a sacrifice bunt, moving Simmons into scoring position with one out. Reed Johnson came to the plate to pinch hit for Teheran and BATTLED with Justin Wilson, but unfortunately, flied out to Snider for the second out. Simmons moved up to 3B on the Wilson wild pitch with BJ at the plate. Clint Hurdle then signaled Justin Wilson to intentionally walk Upton and force a lefty-lefty match up with Heyward. Hurdle's strategy was a success as Wilson struck out Heyward to end the top of the sixth. Anthony Varvaro relieved Teheran and quickly struck out pinch hitter Alex Presley and Starling Marte. Varvaro capped off the 1-2-3 inning with a Travis Snider ground out to Chris Johnson at 1B. 4-4 tie after six.

Seventh Inning: 
Justin Upton led off the seventh with a fly out to Marte in RF and Chris Johnson followed by striking out for the first two outs of the inning. Uggla forced his second walk of the night, but was stranded on 1B as Francisco struck out. Varvaro went back out to the mound for his second inning of work. Andrew McCutchen grounded out to Simmons to begin the inning. Varvaro wrapped up his two inning outing with strikeouts of Garrett Jones and Neil Walker.

Eighth Inning:

News Photo: Evan Gattis of the Atlanta Braves hits a…


PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 18: Evan Gattis #24 of the Atlanta Braves hits a two-run pinch-hit home run in the eighth inning, putting the Braves up 6-4 against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 18, 2013 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)


Simmons again led off the inning with a walk. Just like he did in the sixth, Laird moved to Simmons into scoring position with a sacrifice bunt. Evan Gattis came to the plate to pinch hit for Varvaro and absolutely crushed a Jared Hughes 2-0 pitch for a 2-run homer, giving the Braves the lead again, 6-4. On the next pitch, BJ roped a double to LF, but Heyward lined into a 6-unassisted double play to Clint Barmes. Eric O'Flaherty was summoned to the mound to pitch the eighth and quickly retired the side as Alvarez, Martin, and Barmes flew out to Justin Upton in LF, grounded out to Francisco at 3B, and flew out to BJ in CF respectively.

Ninth Inning:

News Photo: Craig Kimbrel of the Atlanta Braves pitches in…

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 18: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the ninth inning against the 
Pittsburgh Pirates during the game on April 18, 2013 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Braves defeated the Pirates 6-4. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Vin Mazzaro came in to pitch the ninth for the Pirates and quickly retired Justin Upton who popped out to Martin in foul territory. Chris Johnson singled to RF, his third hit of the game. Uggla followed with a single through the left side of the infield. Francisco again struck out on three pitches. A Russell Martin passed ball moved Uggla and Johnson to 2nd and 3rd with two outs, but Simmons stranded both runners as he grounded out to 1B. Craig Kimbrel came on to attempt to record his seventh save of the season. And that he did as he struck out the side in order sealing the 6-4 win for the Braves.

Player(s) of the Game - Evan Gattis/Braves Bullpen
Evan Gattis had been scuffling a bit in his last few games, going hitless in his last twelve at-bats. He quickly ended that slump with a 2-run homer, his fifth of the season, to LF which untied the game and put the Braves ahead for good. Braves bullpen once again was spectacular as they completely shut down the Pirates bats. In four innings of work, the bullpen allowed no hits, no runs, no walks, and struck out five, three of which belonged to Kimbrel. Braves lead the majors in bullpen ERA (1.36).