Friday, May 31, 2013

Game 54 Preview: Washington Nationals (27-27) at Atlanta Braves (32-21)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Stephen Strasburg (WSH) 3-5, 2.49 ERA
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 3-1, 3.67 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:35 pm ET, FS South):

Nationals (career vs. Teheran):
Denard Span - CF (3-6, RBI, K)
Steve Lombardozzi - LF (N/A)
Ryan Zimmerman - 3B (0-3)
Adam LaRoche - 1B (2-4, 2 BB)
Ian Desmond - SS (3-6, 2 K)
Roger Bernadina - RF (N/A)
Danny Espinosa - 2B (1-6, K)
Kurt Suzuki - C (1-4, RBI, BB)
Stephen Strasburg - P (0-2, 2 K)

Braves (career vs. Strasburg):
Jason Heyward - CF (7-14, 2B, RBI, 2 BB, 2 K)
Ramiro Pena - SS (1-1, BB)
Justin Upton - RF (1-11, RBI, BB, 4 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (4-12, 2B, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 2 K)
Evan Gattis - LF (1-3, HR, 2 RBI, K)
Brian McCann - C (6-15, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 4 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (11-23, 2 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 3 BB, 8 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (3-11, 3 RBI, 3 K)
Julio Teheran - P (1-2, 2B, K)

Preview:
After an inconsistent start to the season, Nationals saw its bats heat up before Thursday's shutout loss to the Orioles. After losing 3 of 4 to their Beltway rivals, the Nats head south to face their division rivals, the Braves.
The NL East-leading Braves have dominated the season series so far against Washington, winning five of the first seven meetings and outscoring them 30-13. Nats managed to salvage the final two games of a four-game series at the beginning of the month.
After scoring 22 runs in nine games from May 14-22, Nats have averaged almost 4.5 runs per game over the last week. A big piece of the Nats offensive resurgence is Ryan Zimmerman. In 25 games this month, Zimmerman is hitting .326 (30-for-92) with 5 home runs and 17 runs batted in.
Bryce Harper, who is day-to-day with knee bursitis, had hoped to be back in the lineup Friday, but as a precaution, Davey Johnson kept the young star out of tonight's lineup. Roger Bernadina instead will play in right field tonight and hit seventh.
Julio Teheran is coming off a career-high 123 pitch effort against the Mets last Sunday night. The 22-year-old righty logged 6 2/3 innings while allowing just one run on five hits, walked three, and struck out five as he received another no decision.
Stephen Strasburg gets the ball for the Nationals on Friday night, looking to build off a sharp performance in a 6-1 win against the Phillies. Strasburg lasted eight innings while surrendering a run on five hits and struck out a season-high nine batters.

Alex Wood debut:
Braves selected the contract of left-hander Alex Wood prior to Thursday's game against the Blue Jays. Wood went 4-2 with a 1.26 ERA in 10 starts for Double-A Mississippi. He pitched in the 9th inning of Thursday night's game, allowing only one hit as the Braves defeated the Blue Jays, 11-3. With his MLB debut, Wood became the 5th player from the 2012 MLB Draft class to reach the Majors. Wood was also rated the #5 prospect, according to MLB.com.

Side note:
Braves have played just 22 home games this season, but are 16-6 at Turner Field.
Atlanta is 30-6 in games with a homer, 2-15 without a home run.
In his past three starts, Stephen Strasburg has  posted a .173 batting average against while allowing only two extra-base hits, both of which were doubles.
Strasburg is 3-4 with a 3.51 ERA in nine career starts against the Braves, but is 1-2 with a 5.31 ERA at Turner Field.
This weekend's series for the Nationals against the Braves will conclude a rough road stretch that Atlanta endured in April. Nats will have played a 32-game stretch that including just 10 home games. Washington is 14-15 so far during that span.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Game 53 Preview: Toronto Blue Jays (23-30) at Atlanta Braves (31-21)

Pitching Probables:
RHP R.A. Dickey (TOR) 4-6, 4.85 ERA
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 6-2, 2.47 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):

Blue Jays (career against Minor):
Melky Cabrera - LF (1-3, HR, RBI)
Jose Bautista - RF (0-3)
Edwin Encarnacion - 1B (0-1)
Mark DeRosa - 3B (N/A)
Colby Rasmus - CF (0-2, BB, K)
Maicer Izturis - SS (N/A)
Emilio Bonifacio - 2B (6-16, 2B, HR, 3 RBI, 2 K)
Henry Blanco - C (1-5, RBI, K)
R.A. Dickey - P (0-1)

Braves (career against Dickey):
Jordan Schafer - CF (4-10, 2 K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Justin Upton - RF (2-8, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (9-18, 4 2B, HR, 4 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Evan Gattis - LF (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (4-20, HR, RBI, 5 BB, 2 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (4-15, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Ramiro Pena - 2B (0-3)
Mike Minor - P (0-2, K)

Preview:
As people know, R.A. Dickey is the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner. As dominant as he was last season, there was one club that gave him fits, the Atlanta Braves. In Thursday's series finale, Dickey will face his old nemesis at Turner Field in the final game of a pair of two two-game sets this week against the Braves.
In three starts last season against the Braves, Dickey posted a 8.80 ERA. In 15 1/3 innings, he allowed 21 hits and eight walks.
So far in 2013, Dickey has struggled to regain the dominance that led to a Cy Young Award. He's just 4-6 on the season with an ERA of 4.85. In his previous start against the Orioles, Dickey allowed six runs on nine hits, walked three, and struck out four in 6 2/3 innings pitched as he took the 6-5 loss.
Opposite Dickey tonight will be Braves LHP Mike Minor, who has been one of the better pitchers in the National League over the last calendar year. He has a 6-2  record this season with a 2.47 ERA. In his past 25 starts dating back to last season, Minor has posted an ERA of 2.32.

Blue Jays call up three pitchers:
Blue Jays have called up pitchers Todd Redmond (former Brave), Neil Wagner, and Juan Perez for last night's game against the Braves. The moves combated a depleted Jays bullpen stemming from the injury of Brandon Morrow on Tuesday night. Perez and Wagner both pitched last night and combined to go 4 2/3 innings of shutout ball.
In corresponding moves, Jays demoted RHP Thad Weber to Triple-A Buffalo and designated Ramon Ortiz for assignment.

Jordan Walden activated from disabled list:
Braves reliever Jordan Walden was activated from the 15-day disabled list prior to Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays. Walden missed three weeks because of a right shoulder ailment. Walden pitched a scoreless frame in last night's 3-0 loss. In order to make room for Walden, Braves sent Cory Rasmus back to Triple-A Gwinnett.

Braves call up Alex Wood, designate Francisco for assignment:
Braves called up promising LHP Alex Wood from Double-A Mississippi this afternoon. The former UGA star has been nothing short of dominant in the Minors this season, going 4-2 with a microscopic ERA of 1.26 in ten starts for Mississippi. In a corresponding move, Braves designated 3B Juan Francisco for assignment. Braves have ten days to trade Francisco, if not he can go down to Triple-A or be claimed off waivers with the worst team in the league (Marlins) having the first shot of claiming him.

Side note:
Dan Uggla is 1-for-26 in his career against R.A. Dickey, which was a home run. With that, Uggla will not be in the lineup tonight. Ramiro Pena gets the start at 2B and will hit eighth.
Freddie Freeman has had far more success than that of Uggla, going 9-for-18 against the knuckleballer with four doubles, a home run, and 4 runs batted in.
Braves have the second best winning percentage of all-time in Interleague play among National League teams.
In 13 career appearances (10 starts) against the Braves, Dickey is 2-5 with a 5.15 ERA.
Mike Minor has made just one career start against the Blue Jays, which came back in 2011, and allowed one run on five hits, walked a batter, and struck out eight over seven innings to get the win.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Game 52 Preview: Toronto Blue Jays (22-30) at Atlanta Braves (31-20)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Esmil Rogers (TOR) 1-2, 4.56 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-5, 3.16 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):

Blue Jays:
Melky Cabrera - LF
Jose Bautista - RF
Edwin Encarnacion - 1B
JP Arencibia - C
Colby Rasmus - CF
Maicer Izturis - 3B
Emilio Bonifacio - 2B
Munenori Kawasaki - SS
Esmil Rogers - P

Braves:
Andrelton Simmons - SS
Jason Heyward - RF
Justin Upton - LF
Freddie Freeman - 1B
Brian McCann - C
Dan Uggla - 2B
Juan Francisco - 3B
BJ Upton - CF
Kris Medlen - P

Preview:
Esmil Rogers and Kris Medlen have something in common. Both right-handers have made the transition from the bullpen into the starting rotation. Rogers will make his first start since 2011 tonight as the Blue Jays-Braves series shifts to Atlanta for the final two games.
Kris Medlen, split time between the bullpen and starting rotation from 2009 until the end of last July, when he was slotted into the Braves' rotation. From July 31st until the end of the regular season, Medlen went a perfect 12-0 with a 0.97 ERA. But he, like Rogers, are searching for their second win of the season heading into Wednesday's showdown at Turner Field.
After the two teams split the first two games of the series in Toronto, Braves and Jays will conclude their four-game series at Turner Field. The two teams have split their 32 all-time meetings.
Esmil Rogers (1-2, 4.56 ERA) made 67 relief appearances last season, splitting time with the Rockies and Indians before he was traded to the Blue Jays this past offseason. Rogers last start came on September 18, 2011 for the Rockies. In that outing, Rogers was lit up by the Giants offense, allowing nine runs on seven hits in 3.2 innings pitched. Jays have slowly stretched out Rogers' and has not allowed a run in his last 7 1/3 innings pitched.
Kris Medlen (1-5, 3.16 ERA) has struggled with his velocity in his last outing, but he battled through windy conditions in his last start against the Mets at Citi Field. Medlen allowed three runs on seven hits, walked a batter, and struck out nine in six innings pitched in the no decision.

Chris Johnson leading the way:
Braves have a team full of big names, but Chris Johnson leads the team with a .346 batting average. Johnson also leads the team with 15 multi-hit games this season, including six with three or more hits.
Johnson has hit safely in each of his last eight starts, and is hitting .482 (14-for-29) over his last ten games. Although Johnson has been hot, once again, Juan Francisco will start at 3B tonight.

Justin Upton day-off:
With the Braves in the middle of playing 20 games in 20 days, Fredi Gonzalez was given a scheduled day off on Tuesday, which is just the third game Upton has missed this season. Upton is back in the lineup for Wednesday in LF and will hit in the 3rd spot.

Blue Jays bats coming alive:
Blue Jays slugger Jose Bautista has been scorching in the month of May, hitting .382 (34-for-89), and has hit safely in 30 of his last 32 games. Bautista was hitting just .195 through May 1st, and has since raised his average to his .299.
Edwin Encarnacion has caught fire as well, hitting 12 of his 14 home runs since April 23rd, including the home run hit off Tim Hudson in Monday's game.

Side note:
Monday night marked the first meeting between brothers Colby and Cory Rasmus. Cory, who was called up by the Braves last week, made his Major League debut against the Twins. Older brother Colby got the best of Cory on Monday night, hitting a 7th inning double down the left field line. Monday marked the first matchup between brothers in the Majors since 2010 when Jered and Jeff Weaver pitched against each other.

Jordan Walden has been activated from the 15-day disabled list and in order to free up a roster spot for Walden, Braves sent Cory Rasmus back down to Triple-A Gwinnett. Fredi Gonzalez is still electing to go with a 6-man bullpen.

Braves come into play tonight with the fourth best record in the NL and lead the Nationals by 4.5 games in the NL East.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Game 51 Preview: Atlanta Braves (30-20) at Toronto Blue Jays (22-29)

Pitching Probables:
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 6-4, 3.38 ERA
RHP Brandon Morrow (TOR) 2-3, 5.50 ERA

Today's Starting Lineups (12:37 pm ET, SportSouth):

Braves:
Jordan Schafer - CF
Andrelton Simmons - SS
Jason Heyward - RF
Freddie Freeman - 1B
Evan Gattis - C
Brian McCann - DH
Dan Uggla - 2B 
Juan Francisco - 3B 
Reed Johnson - LF

Blue Jays:
Melky Cabrera - DH
Jose Bautista - RF
Edwin Encarnacion - 1B
JP Arencibia - C
Mark DeRosa - 3B
Colby Rasmus - CF
Maicer Izturis - SS
Emilio Bonifacio - 2B
Anthony Gose - LF

Preview:
The opener of a quick two-game series in Toronto took a sour turn for the Braves. Blue Jays pounded out 9 runs via home runs from JP Arencibia, Edwin Encarnacion, and Colby Rasmus as the Blue Jays defeated the Braves 9-3.
In the second game of four between the two teams on Tuesday, the first two are in Toronto, while the final two games will be in Atlanta, Paul Maholm takes the mound against Brandon Morrow.
In his second year with the Braves (first full season), Maholm has proved himself of a useful left-handed starter. He has allowed two runs or less in seven of his ten starts this season, while posting a 3.38 ERA in 61 1/3  innings pitched. Maholm has given up just two home runs.
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays are trying to get Brandon Morrow back on track, as the right-hander has hit a rough patch as of late. Morrow has allowed 11 earned runs on 17 hits over his last couple of starts. Opponents are hitting .282 off Morrow this season, almost 50 points higher than his career average (.235).

BJ Upton again not in lineup:
BJ Upton has struggled to say the least to begin his season, only hitting .148 with 4 home runs and 8 runs batted in in 44 games played. Upton, who signed a 5 year, $75.25 million contract with the Braves this past offseason, has just eight extra-base hits in 155 at-bats while striking out 60 times. 
He sat for the second time in three games on Monday as Greg Walker and BJ try to focus on reconstructing BJ's swing. BJ is one of the more hard-working players in the league and hopefully he can turn the corner and get going once he's back in the lineup.

Brett Lawrie leaves game with ankle injury:
As if Blue Jays had enough key guys get hurt, Brett Lawrie left last night's game after an awkward slide while stealing second base in the 6th inning left him with a sprained left ankle. Lawrie stayed in the game temporarily, but was removed after limping to third base on a ground ball. 
Lawrie, who is hitting .209 in 36 games this season, missed the first two weeks of the season with a strained oblique muscle. Mark DeRosa finished the game at third and will be in today's starting lineup for the Jays.

Side note:
Jason Heyward is back in the lineup and hitting 3rd after having the night off.
Braves RHP Brandon Beachy, recovering from Tommy John surgery, will start for Class A Rome on Wednesday. In his first rehab stint in Triple-A Gwinnett, Beachy went four innings and allowed two runs on two hits, walked three, and struck out three.
Paul Maholm has just two starts against the Blue Jays in his career, going 1-1 with a 3.21 ERA.
Brandon Morrow makes his first career start against the Braves this afternoon.

Monday, May 27, 2013

Home-and-Home Series Preview: Atlanta Braves (30-19) at Toronto Blue Jays (21-29)

Pitching Probables:
Mon: Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-2, 4.95 ERA vs. Mark Buehrle (TOR) 1-3, 5.90 ERA
Tue: Paul Maholm (ATL) 6-4, 3.38 ERA vs. Brandon Morrow (TOR) 2-3, 5.50 ERA
Wed: Esmil Rogers (TOR) 1-2, 4.56 ERA vs. Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-5, 3.16 ERA
Thu: R.A. Dickey (TOR) 4-6, 4.85 ERA vs. Mike Minor (ATL) 6-2, 2.47 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:07 pm ET, SportSouth/MLB Network):

Braves (career vs. Buehrle):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-2)
Reed Johnson - RF (13-37, 4 2B, 3 RBI, 4 K)
Justin Upton - LF (3-6, HR, 2 RBI, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (1-6, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 BB, K)
Evan Gattis - DH (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (4-11, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (3-12, 2B, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-3, RBI)
Jordan Schafer - CF (N/A)

Blue Jays (career vs. Hudson):
Melky Cabrera - LF (2-6, 3B, BB, K)
Jose Bautista - RF (3-11, 2 2B, BB, K)
Edwin Encarnacion - DH (3-12, BB, K)
Adam Lind - 1B (0-5, 2 K)
JP Arencibia - C (1-3, K)
Colby Rasmus - CF (5-11, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, BB, 5 K)
Brett Lawrie - 3B (N/A)
Emilio Bonifacio - 2B (7-18, 2B, RBI, BB, 2 K)
Munenori Kawasaki - SS (N/A)

Comparisons by Position:
C:
Brian McCann (ATL) .292/.375/.563 4 HR 12 RBI
Evan Gattis (ATL) .256/.307/.576 10 HR 29 RBI
JP Arencibia (TOR) .236/.253/.477 11 HR 25 RBI
1B:
Freddie Freeman (ATL) .288/.361/.410 3 HR 30 RBI
Adam Lind (TOR) .304/.398/.491 4 HR 11 RBI
Edwin Encarnacion (TOR) .253/.333/.495 13 HR 38 RBI
2B:
Dan Uggla (ATL) .190/.299/.418 10 HR 20 RBI
Emilio Bonifacio (TOR) .207/.240/.339 2 HR 11 RBI
3B:
Juan Francisco (ATL) .245/.294/.412 5 HR 16 RBI
Chris Johnson (ATL) .352/.386/.496 3 HR 14 RBI
Brett Lawrie (TOR) .199/.260/.368 5 HR 14 RBI
Maicer Izturis (TOR) .213/.242/.323 3 HR 6 RBI
Mark DeRosa (TOR) .203/.300/.424 3 HR 14 RBI
SS:
Andrelton Simmons (ATL) .240/.276/.369 5 HR 18 RBI
Munenori Kawasaki (TOR) .247/.345/.320 0 HR 14 RBI
LF:
Justin Upton (ATL) .272/.385/.572 14 HR 29 RBI
Melky Cabrera (TOR) .283/.327/.384 2 HR 18 RBI
CF:
BJ Upton (ATL) .148/.236/.252 4 HR 8 RBI
Colby Rasmus (TOR) .237/.306/.423 7 HR 20 RBI
RF:
Jason Heyward (ATL) .163/.306/.272 2 HR 8 RBI
Jose Bautista (TOR) .295/.405/.564 11 HR 27 RBI

Preview:
Braves and Blue Jays are kicking off a new age-type Interleague series on Monday night, but the pitching matchup will have an old school-type feel to it.
The two clubs will kickoff a home-and-home series in Toronto on Monday night, the red-hot Braves, winners of eight of their last nine ballgames, will send veteran RHP Tim Hudson to the mound to square off against the Blue Jays veteran LHP Mark Buehrle. The two teams will play two in Toronto before travelling back to Atlanta to close out the home-and-home series on Wednesday and Thursday.
Buehrle (1-3, 5.90 ERA) is off to a shaky start in his first season in Toronto. He has managed only one win in ten starts this season, but has recently showed signs of a turnaround.
Despite being winless since April 15th, Buehrle has pitched exceptionally well in his last three starts. In his last start against the Rays on Wednesday, Buehrle allowed two runs on four hits, walked two, and struck out six in seven innings, marking the third consecutive start in which Buehrle has entered the 7th inning having allowed two or fewer runs. Buehrle's lone win of the season came against his former club in the White Sox. Despite Buehrle's 1-3 record, the Blue Jays are 6-4 in his starts this season.
As for Tim Hudson, he's looking for a turnaround of his own after a recent slide following an impressive start to the season. In his first seven starts of the season, Hudson was 4-1 with a 3.83 ERA. But in his last three starts, Hudson is 0-2 with a 8.56 ERA to raise his ERA up to 4.98. In his previous start against the Twins, Hudson lasted just five innings due to 76-minute delay because of rain and multiple outages in the stadium lights. In those five innings, Hudson allowed two runs on five hits and struck out five. Hudson looks to build off of his previous outing Monday night in Toronto.

Freddie Freeman: red-hot with RISP:
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman has picked up where he left off last season in terms of hitting with runners in scoring position. So far in 2013, Freeman is hitting .486 (17-for-35) with runners in scoring position. That leads the National League among qualified hitters with at least 10 at-bats with runners in scoring position. Freeman's success with driving runners in from 2nd and 3rd has helped him lead the team in RBI with 30.

Side note:
Braves are 20-3 (.870) this season when scoring first.
Braves and Blue Jays have split their first 30 all-time meetings evenly, 15-15, but Atlanta has won eight of the last nine dating back to 2009.
Braves 3B Chris Johnson leads the team with 15 multi-hit games this season and has six games of three or more hits which is tied 3rd in the NL. Johnson has hit safely in each of his last seven starts.
Tim Hudson is 11-3 with a 2.79 ERA in 16 career starts against the Blue Jays.
In 6 starts against the Braves in his career, Mark Buehrle is 3-2 with a 4.84 ERA.

Friday, May 24, 2013

Game 47 Preview: Atlanta Braves (28-18) at New York Mets (17-27)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-5, 3.02 ERA
RHP Jeremy Hefner (NYM) 0-5, 5.00 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):

Braves (career vs. Hefner):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (1-3, 2B)
Justin Upton - LF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-4, HR, 4 RBI)
Brian McCann - C (2-4. 2B, 2 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-3, BB)
Juan Francisco - 3B (N/A)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Kris Medlen - P (1-3, 2B, RBI)

Mets (career vs. Medlen):
Daniel Murphy - 2B (2-14, 2B, RBI, 2 K)
Rick Ankiel - CF (1-2, 3B, RBI)
David Wright - 3B (2-16, 2 BB, 7 K)
Lucas Duda - LF (1-8, RBI, BB, 2 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (0-1)
John Buck - C (0-2, BB)
Ike Davis - 1B (4-15, HR, RBI, 5 BB, 2 K)
Ruben Tejada - SS (3-13, 2B, K)
Jeremy Hefner - P (0-1, K)

Preview:
Jeremy Hefner is 0-5 in nine appearances (eight starts) this season. His next attempt in notching his first win of the season does not figure to get any easier. Hefner gets the ball tonight in the first game of a three-game series at Citi Field against the red-hot Braves. The Mets are 0-8 in Hefner's starts this season, and 7-14 in his 21 career starts.
Perhaps Hefner's struggles are not the fault of why he has not won a game this season. Mets offense has scored only 13 runs in the 45 innings Hefner has worked this season.
Meanwhile, the Braves have won six in a row and seven of nine. Mets are 3-8 in its last eleven games and are 2-11 at home in its last thirteen. It;s the second meeting of the season between the two teams, as they split a rain shortened series in early-May.
Braves RHP Kris Medlen gets the nod for Atlanta tonight, looking for just his second win of the season despite posting a sharp ERA of 3.02. In his last start against the Dodgers, Medlen notched seven innings while giving up an unearned on two hits, walked three, and struck out five in the no decision. Braves beat the Dodgers 3-1 on back-to-back home runs from Evan Gattis and Andrelton Simmons.

Varvaro heading home to New York:
Braves reliever Anthony Varvaro will most likely make his third appearance at Citi Field this weekend, which not far from where the right-hander grew up. The Staten Island native, went to Curtis High School in Staten Island and attended St. Johns University in Queens, not far from Citi Field. In his career at Citi Field, Varvaro has surrendered a run on three hits in 3 1/3 innings.

Mets offensive struggles:
Mets offense has sputtered as of late, only scoring three runs or fewer in 12 of their last 16 games.
Ike Davis has struggled the entire season and snapped a slump of 12 consecutive appearances without reaching base when he drew a walk in Wednesday's game against the Reds. Davis has just one hit in his last 38 at-bats.
If there is one Met not named David Wright who isn't struggling, it's Marlon Byrd. Byrd is hitting .307 (12-for-39) with three home runs this month.

Side note:
In two appearances (one start) against the Braves, Hefner is 0-1 with a 8.53 ERA. His only start against Atlanta, Hefner went 2 2/3 innings and allowed five runs on eight hits.
Freddie Freeman and Brian McCann are both 2-for-4 in their careers against Hefner with a combined homer and 6 RBI to go with a double.
Jeremy Hefner makes his first start after his hometown, Moore, Oklahoma, was devastated by a tornado earlier this week.
Kris Medlen has owned the Mets in his career, going 3-0 with a 1.58 ERA in five appearances (two starts).

Monday, May 20, 2013

Game 44 Preview: Minnesota Twins (18-22) at Atlanta Braves (25-18)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Kevin Correia (MIN) 4-3, 3.35 ERA
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 2-1, 4.57 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):

Twins (Teheran's 1st career start against MIN):
Brian Dozier - 2B
Joe Mauer - C
Justin Morneau - 1B
Josh Willingham - LF
Trevor Plouffe - 3B
Chris Parmelee - RF
Pedro Florimon - SS
Aaron Hicks - CF
Kevin Correia - P

Braves (career vs. Correia):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-3)
Jason Heyward - RF (1-6, RBI, 2 BB)
Justin Upton - LF (14-42, 4 2B, HR, 2 RBI, BB, 7 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-5, 2B, RBI, K)
Gerald Laird - C (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (5-17, HR, 2 RBI, 4 BB, 2 K)
Juan Francisco - 3B (1-3, 2B, RBI, K)
BJ Upton - CF (2-3, 2B, RBI)
Julio Teheran - P (N/A)

Preview:
The last time the Braves hosted the Twins in Atlanta, the Braves defeated the Twins 14-5 in Game 5 of the 1991 World Series at the good ole launching pad that was Fulton County Stadium. All nine of the team's previous nine meetings since then have taken place in Minnesota, with the last coming in 2010 when the Braves swept the Twins. For the first time ever, the Twins will come to Turner Field to begin a three-game series tonight.
Twins come to town struggling mightily, having lost four of five games to finish their nine game home stand at 2-7. Braves had lost five of six games before starting their current six-game home stand at Turner Field by sweeping a three-game series with the Dodgers.
Twins RHP Kevin Correia will get the ball tonight for the Twins against fellow right-hander Julio Teheran of the first place Braves. Correia (4-3, 3.35 ERA) is no stranger to Turner Field, having spent the first ten years of his career in the National League with the Giants, Padres, and Pirates. He sports a 2.66 ERA in five appearances, including four starts at The Ted. Through 40 games, Correia has been the most consistent starting pitcher for the Twins, but has struggled a bit this month in three starts, posting an ERA of 5.71. In his previous start last Tuesday against the White Sox, Correia pitched into the 8th inning while allowing four runs on nine hits, walked one, and struck out two as he took the loss 4-2. Correia gave up two runs before recording an out in the 8th, losing out on what would have been his sixth quality start of the season.
Teheran (2-1, 4.57 ERA) has picked up his performance as of late, as he tries to solidify his spot in the rotation with the return of Brandon Beachy looming. The young right-hander has held his opponents to three runs or fewer in four consecutive starts and in that stretch, has posted a 14-to-1 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 25 1/3 innings pitched. Perhaps they key to Teheran's recent success has been his confidence in using his offspeed pitches, including using his changeup more frequently. Teheran did just that in his last start against the Diamondbacks, giving up just two runs on seven hits and struck out three over six innings, as he took an unfortunate loss, 2-0.

Twins sending NL vets to mound in series vs. Braves:
Coincidence or not? It just so happens that all three of the Twins starting pitchers who will start in the series against the Braves (Correia, Pelfrey, Worley) have spent their entire careers in the NL before this season and all three starters have had tons of experience against the Braves. Mike Pelfrey and Vance Worley both pitched in the NL East while Kevin Correia spent time with the Giants, Padres, and Pirates.

Juan Francisco slumping, Chris Johnson continues to streak:
Juan Francisco, who is platooning with Chris Johnson at third base, has been striking out at an alarming rate in his recent slump. Francisco has struck out in seven consecutive at-bats and has struck out nine times in his last ten. Francisco is hitless in his last thirteen at-bats with ten strikeouts and he has struck out 39 times in 91 at-bats this season.
On the contrary, Chris Johnson has nine hits in his last sixteen at-bats with a double and a home run. Johnson has ripped apart lefties this season, going 20-for-46 (.435) which leads all of baseball.

Side note:
Braves are 4-5 all-time in the regular season against the Twins.
Justin Upton has owned Kevin Correia in his career, going 14-for-42 (.333) with a homer and four doubles.
BJ Upton is last in the NL in hitting (.145) through 39 game splayed this season.
Julio Teheran will make his first career start against the Twins tonight.
Kevin Correia is 3-2 with a 3.51 ERA in 11 appearances (7 starts) against the Braves in his career.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Game 42 Preview: Los Angeles Dodgers (17-23) at Atlanta Braves (23-18)

Pitching Probables:
LHP Chris Capuano (LAD) 1-2, 6.60 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-5, 3.44 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, FS South):

Dodgers (career vs. Medlen):
Carl Crawford - LF (N/A)
Matt Kemp - CF (1-7, 2B, 4 K)
Adrian Gonzalez - 1B (0-1, BB, K)
Andre Ethier - RF (4-6, 2 2B, RBI, K)
Skip Schumaker - 2B (1-3)
Tim Federowicz - C (N/A)
Nick Punto - 3B (0-3, BB, K)
Dee Gordon - SS (N/A)
Chris Capuano - P (N/A)

Braves (career vs. Capuano):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (1-6, 3 K)
Justin Upton - LF (5-14, 2B, 3B, HR, 2 RBI, BB, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-13, 5 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (4-15, 2 2B, HR, 4 RBI, 2 BB, 4 K)
Brian McCann - C (3-9, 2B, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (4-22, 2B, RBI, 4 BB, 13 K)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)

Preview:
While Kris Medlen has a respectable ERA of 3.44, he is in the midst of a disturbing trend. And that is the amount of home runs he has allowed in eight starts this season, including allowing three in his previous start against the Giants last Sunday. In 49 2/3 innings pitched this season, Medlen has given up seven home runs after allowing only six in 138 innings pitched last season.
Medlen will get the chance to redeem himself tonight and pick up his second win of the season against the Dodgers at Turner Field. Meanwhile, Chris Capuano takes the mound for the last-place Dodgers, looking for back-to-back wins in his fourth start of the season. The lefty was dominant in his last start against the helpless Marlins, going 6 1/3 innings while allowing  one run on five hits as he earned his first win of 2013. In the two starts before his dominating performance against Miami, Capuano failed to go 5 innings. His April 16th outing was cut short due to a strained left calf after two innings, and was sent to the disabled list as a result.

Heyward's return from DL:
Confident that Heyward was fully recovered from his emergency appendectomy, Braves activated their starting RF prior to Friday night's game and put him in the 2 spot in the lineup. Heyward responded by going 2-for-4 with an RBI, double, and two runs scored.
To create a roster spot for Heyward, the Braves stuck to their plan of going with a six-man bullpen, but instead of sending David Carpenter down to Triple-A Gwinnett, Braves placed Jordan Walden on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation.

Beachy set to make rehab start on Sunday:
Braves RHP Brandon Beachy is scheduled to start for Triple-A Gwinnett on Sunday. It will be the first official Minor League rehab start for Beachy, who underwent from Tommy John surgery last June.

Side note:
Chris Capuano has had success against the Braves in his career, going 5-3 with a 2.75 ERA in 12 career appearances (10 starts).
Kris Medlen has also had success against the Dodgers, going 2-0 with a 2.30 ERA in 6 career appearances (1 start).

Friday, May 17, 2013

(17-23) Los Angeles Dodgers at (23-18) Atlanta Braves Recap

"ATLANTA, GA - MAY 17: Jason Heyward #22 of the Atlanta Braves makes a sliding catch against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field on May 17, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)"

Following a lengthy road trip, the National League East leaders, the Atlanta Braves will returned home to open up a three-game series with the last-place Los Angeles Dodgers. As for Atlanta, they have struggled on the back end of their recent ten-game road trip, dropping five out of their last six games and their lead in the division has been cut to just a half-game. Dodgers have been playing better baseball in wake of their eight-game losing streak and suddenly, both clubs are trending in opposite directions. Braves started off strong on the road trip, winning three of the first four games, including taking two of three from the Reds before sputtering out of control. Tonight, they will turn to starter Paul Maholm, who is on the same downward trend as the rest of his team during the road trip. Maholm, (4-4, 3.94 ERA) earned his fourth win of the season with an impressive performance against the Reds on May 6th, going (5.2) innings , allowed (2) runs on (4) hits, allowed (2) walks and struck out (6) in the 7-4 win; however, in his  last start against the Giants, Maholm  was tagged for (6) runs on (8) hits in just (4.1) innings while throwing a season-low 86 pitches before exiting in an eventual 10-1 loss. As for the Dodgers, they will counter with Korean phenom, Hyun-Jin Ryu who stopped the Dodgers eight-game losing streak, going  (6.2) innings and conceding just one run against tthe Miami Marlins in his last start. The Braves would get a boost to their lineup as  Jason Heyward was activated from the 15-day DL and will hit second in tonight's lineup. In order to create a roster spot for Heyward, Jordan Walden was sent to the disabled list with  right shoulder inflammation. Heyward has been sidelined since April 22nd after undergoing an appendectomy procedure in Denver. Braves are 13-4 when Heyward is in the lineup, 9-14 without him so Atlanta would hope that his return would be the sign of change in the Braves season. Tonight, Braves will begin to even out as they begin a six-game home stand with the Los Angeles Dodgers; followed by an inter-league contest against the AL Central  Minnesota Twins.


FIRST INNING:

In the Dodgers first at bats of the game, Carl Crawford grounds out to first baseman Freddie Freeman for their first out. Nick Punto singles on a line drive to center fielder B. J. Upton for to put a runner on with one out. Matt Kemp grounds into a force out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to second baseman Dan Uggla. Nick Punto out at 2nd. Matt Kemp to 1st with two outs in the inning. Adrian Gonzalez flies out to left fielder Justin Upton and the Dodgers would strand a runner. Andrelton Simmons opened Atlanta's first at bats with Andrelton Simmons pops out to third baseman Luis Cruz for the first out; followed by Jason Heyward grounds out, second baseman Nick Punto to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. Justin Upton walked on four straight pitches to put a runner on first with two outs. Freddie Freeman would also walk. Justin Upton to 2nd and now two runners were on with two outs; however, Chris Johnson would strike out swinging to strand two runners and the game was scoreless.

SECOND INNING:

In Los Angeles second offensive stint, A. J. Ellis doubled on a fly ball to center fielder B.J Upton with no outs. Scott Van Slyke flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton for the first out. Luis Cruz singles on a ground ball to second baseman Dan Uggla. A. J. Ellis to 3rd to place runners on the corners with one out. Dee Gordon grounds into a force out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to second baseman Dan Uggla. J. Ellis scores. Luis Cruz out at 2nd. Dee Gordon to 1st and the Dodgers took a 1-0 lead with two outs. Hyun-Jin Ryu flies out to right fielder Jason Heyward for the final out and Los Angeles led 1-0. In the Braves next stretch, Brian McCann would open the inning by walking to place a runner on with no outs. Dan Uggla strikes out swinging. One out; followed by B. J. Upton pops out to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez in foul territory and Paul Maholm strikes out swinging for the final out and the Dodgers led 1-0 heading into the next frame.

THIRD INNING:
"ATLANTA, GA - MAY 17: Jason Heyward #22 of the Atlanta Braves is congratulated by teammates after scoring a third-inning run against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field on May 17, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)"

Carl Crawford opened the Dodgers next frame as he grounds out sharply, pitcher Paul Maholm to first baseman Freddie Freeman for the first out. Nick Punto singles on a soft line drive to second baseman Dan Uggla to put a runner on with one out. Matt Kemp strikes out swinging for the second out. With Adrian Gonzalez batting, Nick Punto steals 2nd base; however, the inning would end for L.A. as Adrian Gonzalez flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton. Andrelton Simmons would start the Braves next offensive stint as he  singles on a line drive to right fielder Scott Van Slyke.  Jason Heyward doubled on a line drive to left fielder Carl Crawford. Andrelton Simmons to 3rd. None out. Justin Upton grounds out softly, second baseman Nick Punto to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. Andrelton Simmons scores. Jason Heyward to 3rd and the Braves tied the game at 1-1. Freddie Freeman would give Atlanta the lead as he singles on a line drive to center fielder Matt Kemp. Jason Heyward scores. Chris Johnson singles on a ground ball to shortstop Dee Gordon. Freddie Freeman to 2nd to place two on with one out.  Brian McCann flied out to left fielder Carl Crawford for the second out. Dan Uggla walks. Freddie Freeman to 3rd. Chris Johnson to 2nd and the bases are loaded with two outs; however, the inning would end as B. J. Upton pops out to second baseman Nick Punto and Atlanta took their 2-1 lead into the next inning. 

FOURTH INNING:
"ATLANTA, GA - MAY 17: Hyun-Jin Ryu #99 of the Los Angeles Dodgers knocks in a run with a fourth inning single against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field on May 17, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)"

In Los Angeles next offensive stint, A. J. Ellis walked to place a runner on with no outs. Scott Van Slyke flies out to right fielder Jason Heyward for the first out. Luis Cruz reaches on a fielding error by second baseman Dan Uggla. A. J. Ellis to 2nd with one out. Dee Gordon was called out on strikes for the second out. Hyun-Jin Ryu singles on a line drive to center fielder B. Upton. A. Ellis scores. Luis Cruz to 3rd and Dodgers tied the game at 2-2. Carl Crawford singles on a line drive to center fielder B. J. Upton. Luis Cruz scores. Hyun-Jin Ryu to 2nd. Carl Crawford singles on a line drive to center fielder B. J. Upton. Luis Cruz scores. Hyun-Jin Ryu to 2nd to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead. In Atlanta's next offensive stretch, Paul Maholm singles on a ground ball to center fielder Matt Kemp with no outs.  Andrelton Simmons strikes out swinging for the first out; followed by  Jason Heyward strikes out swinging for the second out and couldn't capitalize as Justin Upton grounds out shortstop Dee Gordon to second baseman Nick Punto. Paul Maholm out at 2nd and L.A. would maintain their one run lead of 3-2.

FIFTH INNING:

In Los Angeles next offensive stretch, Matt Kemp called out on strikes for the first out; followed by Adrian Gonzalez flies out to left fielder Justin Upton and the Braves got their first 1-2-3 inning as A. J. Ellis grounds out softly, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Freddie Freeman walked to open up the Braves offensive stint in the fifth inning. Chris Johnson flies out to right fielder Scott Van Slyke for the first out. Brian McCann flies out to center fielder Matt Kemp and wouldn't capitalize as Dan Uggla flies out to right fielder Scott Van Slyke and the Dodgers maintained their 3-2 lead.

SIXTH INNING:
"ATLANTA, GA - MAY 17: Justin Upton #8 of the Atlanta Braves rounds the bases after hitting a sixth-inning grand slam against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field on May 17, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)"

The Dodgers would open the inning with a Scott Van Slyke homer on a fly ball to center field to give them a 4-2 lead; however, they wouldn't cause any more damage as Luis Cruz pops out to shortstop Andrelton Simmons; followed by Dee Gordon flies out to center fielder B. J. Upton and finally after Tim Federowicz singles on a soft line drive to center fielder B. J. Upton, Carl Crawford grounds out, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Dodgers took a two run lead to the bottom frame. In Atlanta's next offensive stint, after B. J. Upton strikes out swinging for the first out, Jordan Schafer singles on a fly ball to left fielder Carl Crawford; followed by a Andrelton Simmons reaches on a fielding error by third baseman Luis Cruz. Jordan Schafer to 2nd to place two on with one out and the bases were loaded as  Jason Heyward walks. Jordan Schafer to 3rd. Andrelton Simmons to 2nd. One out. Justin Upton hits a grand slam to left field. Jordan Schafer scores. Andrelton Simmons scores. Jason Heyward scores and Atlanta leads 6-4 with one out. Freddie Freeman walked with one out. The inning would finally come to an end as Chris Johnson strikes out swinging; followed by Brian McCann grounds out softly, shortstop Dee Gordon to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and the Braves took a 6-4 lead into the next inning.

SEVENTH INNING:

Before the Braves started the inning, a pitching change was made as  Luis Avilan replaces Paul Maholm, batting 5th, replacing third baseman Chris Johnson. Malholm's night finished with  (6.0) innings pitched, allowed (8) hits, earned two of the four runs, allowed one walk, and struck out three batters. Avilan would send the Dodgers lineup down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Nick Punto grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman; followed by Matt Kemp grounds out, third baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman and ended with Adrian Gonzalez strikes out swinging. As for the Braves next stint, Dan Uggla pops out to second baseman Skip Schumaker for the first out; followed by B. J. Upton called out on strikes for the second out. The inning stayed alive as Ramiro Pena triples on a fly ball to center fielder Matt Kemp. Two out. Andrelton Simmons reaches on a fielding error by left fielder Carl Crawford. Ramiro Pena scores. Andrelton Simmons to 2nd and the Braves led 7-4. Jason Heyward singles on a line drive to left fielder Carl Crawford. Andrelton Simmons scores. Jason Heyward out at 2nd on the throw, left fielder Carl Crawford to catcher A. Ellis to second baseman Skip Schumaker and Atlanta would take a commanding 8-4 lead into the next frame.

EIGHTH INNING:

As the Braves took the field, another pitching change occurred as Eric O'Flaherty replaces Luis Avilan, batting 5th. The Dodgers would start this inning as A. J. Ellis grounds out, third baseman Ramiro Pena to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Scott Van Slyke homered  on a fly ball to center field to trim the Braves lead down to 8-5. The inning would end for Los Angeles as Luis Cruz pops out to third baseman Ramiro Pena in foul territory; followed by Dee Gordon strikes out on a foul tip. As for the Braves final offensive stretch, Justin Upton grounds out, third baseman Luis Cruz to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez.; followed by Freddie Freeman pops out to pitcher J. P. Howell for the second out. : Pinch-hitter Reed Johnson replaces Eric O'Flaherty.
and Reed Johnson grounds out, third baseman Luis Cruz to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and the Braves took their 8-5 lead into the final inning.

NINTH INNING:

Atlanta sent out reliever Craig Kimbrel to replace Eric O'Flaherty and was looking to close out the victory over Los Angeles and would do the job in the Dodgers final offensive stretch, after Skip Schumaker singles on a ground ball to center fielder B. J. Upton with no outs. However, they wouldn't capitalize as Carl Crawford strikes out swinging; followed by Andre Ethier strikes out swinging and Matt Kemp grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Braves would earn the first win of the series over the Dodgers and end their two- game losing streak.

WINNING PITCHER:

Paul Maholm (5-4):
(6.0) innings pitched, allowed (8) hits, earned two of the four runs, allowed one walk, and struck out three batters.

LOSING PITCHER:

Paco Rodriguez (0-2):
(0.2) Innings Pitched, allowed one hit, (2) earned runs, (2) walks allowed, and struck out one batter

SAVE:

Craig Kimbrel (12)


PLAYER OF THE GAME:

JUSTIN UPTON:
"ATLANTA, GA - MAY 17: Justin Upton #8 of the Atlanta Braves hits a sixth-inning grand slam against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field on May 17, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)"

Without any question, Justin Upton was a critical factor in Atlanta's win tonight. Although Upton was (1-4) tonight, two of his at-bats sparked a Braves offensive run in the third inning with his sacrifice ground out to tie the game at 1-1 and his outstanding grand slam to push the Braves over the top with a 6-4 lead and Atlanta would never look back. Tonight, Justin Upton earned his major-league leading (14th) home run to give the Braves the edge necessary to win the game. In the first two months of the season, it's clear that Justin Upton is not only the most valuable player in the Atlanta Braves lineup; but, the National League's most valuable player as well. Justin Upton has lived up to all of the hype that was generated in the trade back from January. Upton has cooled off some from his explosive start in April; however, he's still a great asset to the Braves offense and tonight's game was another indicating factor in how tremendous the 25-year old left fielder can be throughout the remainder of the 2013 MLB season.


Game 41 Preview: Los Angeles Dodgers (17-22) at Atlanta Braves (22-18)

Pitching Probables:
LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu (LAD) 4-2, 3.40 ERA
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 4-4, 3.94 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:35 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network):

Dodgers (career vs. Maholm):
Carl Crawford - LF (N/A)
Nick Punto - 2B (0-7, 2 BB)
Matt Kemp - CF (4-15, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 4 K)
Adrian Gonzalez - 1B (3-11, 2B, 2 RBI, BB, 3 K)
AJ Ellis - C (0-2)
Scott Van Slyke - RF (N/A)
Luis Cruz - 3B (N/A)
Dee Gordon - SS (1-3)
Hyun-Jin Ryu - P (N/A)

Braves (Ryu's 1st career start against ATL):
Andrelton Simmons - SS
Jason Heyward - RF
Justin Upton - LF
Freddie Freeman - 1B
Chris Johnson - 3B
Brian McCann - C
Dan Uggla - 2B
BJ Upton - CF
Paul Maholm - P

Preview:
Home sweet home don't you say? Following a lengthy road trip, the NL East leading Braves will return home Friday as they open up a three-game series with the last-place Dodgers. Atlanta struggled on the back end of their recent ten-game road trip, dropping five out of their last six games and their lead in the division has been cut to just a half-game. Dodgers have been playing better baseball in wake of their eight-game losing streak and suddenly, both clubs are trending in opposite directions. 
Braves started off strong on the road trip, winning three of the first four games, including taking two of three from the Reds before sputtering out of control. Tonight, they will turn to starter Paul Maholm, who is on the same downward trend as the rest of his team during the road trip. 
Maholm (4-4, 3.94 ERA) earned his fourth win of the season with an impressive performance against the Reds on May 6th, going 5 2/3 innings and allowed two runs on four hits, walked two and struck out six in the 7-4 win. But Maholm was battered around in his last start against the Giants. The lefty was tagged for six runs on eight hits in 4 1/3 innings while throwing a season-low 86 pitches before exiting in an eventual 10-1 loss. 
Dodgers will counter with Korean phenom, Hyun-Jin Ryu who stopped the Dodgers eight-game losing streak, going 6 2/3 innings and conceding just one run against the marlins in his last start. Ryu signed a 6-year $36 million contract this past December and has pitched at least six innings in each of his first eight Major League starts. He enters tonight's game with a 4-2 record and an ERA of 3.40. 

Jason Heyward activated from DL:
Braves RF Jason Heyward has been activated from the 15-day DL and will hit 2nd in tonight's lineup. In order to create a roster spot for Heyward, Jordan Walden was sent to the disabled list with  right shoulder inflammation. Heyward has been sidelined since April 22nd after undergoing an appendectomy procedure in Denver. Braves are 13-4 when Heyward is in the lineup, 9-14 without him.

Feels good to be home:
After playing 26 of their first 40 games on the road, Braves schedule will begin to even out as they begin a six-game home stand with the Dodgers and Twins. After all the struggles the Braves have gone through while on the road, they have managed to go 13-13 in those 26 games. The home cooking should snap the Braves out of their recent funk.

Matt Kemp catching fire:
Dodgers CF Matt Kemp extended his hitting streak to 14 games with a first inning double off of Ross Detwiler. He finished the night with 2 hits in 4 at-bats. During his 14-game hit streak, Kemp is 19-for-58 (.328), though 16 of the hits have been singles. For the season, Kemp is hitting .282 with just 1 HR and 15 RBIs. 

Side note:
Tonight will be Hyun-Jin Ryu's first career start against the Braves.
Paul Maholm is 1-5 in nine career starts against the Dodgers with an ERA of 4.91.




Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Game 40 Preview: Atlanta Braves (22-17) at Arizona Diamondbacks (22-18)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-2, 4.70 ERA
RHP Ian Kennedy (ARZ) 1-3, 4.83 ERA

Today's Starting Lineups (3:40 pm ET, SportSouth):

Braves (career vs. Kennedy):
Jordan Schafer - LF (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Justin Upton - RF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (1-1, 2 RBI, BB)
Brian McCann - C (2-8, HR, RBI, BB)
BJ Upton - CF (3-11, HR, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 2 K)
Juan Francisco - 3B (0-3, K)
Ramiro Pena - 2B (N/A)
Tim Hudson - P (N/A)

Diamondbacks (career vs. Hudson):
Gerardo Parra - RF (2-3, 2 BB)
Didi Gregorius - SS (N/A)
Paul Goldschmidt - 1B (0-6, 2 K)
Eric Chavez - 3B (0-2, K)
Cody Ross - LF (4-26, RBI, 5 K)
Miguel Montero - C (2-7, BB, K)
Martin Prado - 2B (N/A)
AJ Pollock - CF (N/A)
Ian Kennedy - P (N/A)

Preview:
Lost in all the Justin Upton hoopla is the fact that both the Braves and the D-backs field all-around talented teams which includes stocked pitching staffs. The two teams aces will face off in the finale of this three-game series at Chase Field.
After a rough start to the 2013 campaign, it seems as if D-backs ace Ian Kennedy is returning to form that guided him to 21 wins in 2011. The right-hander, who is 1-3 with a 4.83 ERA in eight starts this season, limited the Phillies to two runs on six hits, walked three, and struck out four over seven innings in the no decision last Friday.
D-backs will need Kennedy to be at his best because Braves RHP Tim Hudson has flat out owned the Diamondbacks in his career. In nine starts against Arizona, Hudson is 7-0 with a 1.33 ERA, including a 4-0 record with a 0.94 ERA in five starts at Chase Field.
Braves (22-17) come into play holding a one-game lead in the NL East over the Nationals, who lost 2-0 to the Dodgers last night behind Clayton Kershaw's masterful performance. D-backs (22-18) are in 2nd place in the NL West, but trail the Giants by 1.5 games.
Braves are currently 4-5 on their ten-game road trip which wraps up this afternoon. After today's contest, Braves will go home for a six-game home stand with the Dodgers and Twins. D-backs will head out on the road for a six-game trip against the Marlins and Rockies.

BJ back in lineup after HBP to shoulder:
BJ Upton left Monday's game in the 6th inning with a left shoulder contusion after he was hit by Wade Miley. Upton was listed as day-to-day with the injury. After sitting out last night's game, Upton is back in the lineup today and will hit 6th.

Side note:
In his first two games against his former club, Justin Upton has reached base six times in nine plate appearances.
D-backs OF Cody Ross has struggled against Tim Hudson in his career, going 4-for-26 (.154).
Tim Hudson is 7-0 with a 1.33 ERA in nine starts against the Diamondbacks, including a complete game.
Ian Kennedy is 1-0 against the Braves with a 2.66 ERA in three starts.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Game 39 Preview: Atlanta Braves (22-16) at Arizona Diamondbacks (21-18)

Pitching Probables:
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 2-0, 4.84 ERA
LHP Patrick Corbin (ARZ) 5-0, 1.75 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (9:40 pm ET, SportSouth)

Braves (career vs. Corbin):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-1)
Reed Johnson - CF (N/A)
Justin Upton - RF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-1)
Evan Gattis - LF (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-1, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Gerald Laird - C (N/A)
Julio Teheran - P (N/A)

Diamondbacks (career vs. Teheran):
Gerardo Parra - RF (1-2)
Didi Gregorius - SS (N/A)
Paul Goldschmidt - 1B (N/A)
Eric Chavez - 3B (N/A)
Martin Prado - LF (N/A)
Miguel Montero - C (0-2)
AJ Pollock - CF (N/A)
Cliff Pennington - 2B (N/A)
Patrick Corbin - P (N/A)

Preview:
Patrick Corbin has been good. I mean REALLY good. Corbin has been so dominant that he has accomplished something that 4-time NL Cy Young Award winner Randy Johnson, Brandon Webb, Curt Schilling, and Dan Haren could not do. Corbin is the first pitcher in Diamondbacks franchise history to throw at least six innings and allow no more than two runs in each of his first seven starts to begin the season. Corbin looks to improve upon that tonight when the D-backs host the first place Braves in the second game of a three-game series at Chase Field. Arizona looks to snap its three-game skid after getting trounced in the series opener last night, 10-1 in Justin Upton's anticipated return. Braves snapped a three-game losing streak of their own with that win last night and are still in sole possession of first place in the NL East, leading the Nationals by a single game.
Despite barely making the ball club out of Spring Training as the team's 5th starter, Corbin has soared to a 5-0 record in seven starts to go along with a 1.75 ERA, which is good for 6th in the NL. In 2012, Corbin went 6-8 with a 4.54 ERA in 17 starts and went at least six innings without giving up no more than two runs only six times.
Another promising, young pitcher, Julio Teheran is trying to make that same leap and has been showing signs of progress lately. Teheran (2-0, 4.84 ERA) struggled in the early going, allowing four runs in each of his first three starts of the season, but the 22-year-old is starting to figure things out as he has held the opposition to to three runs or fewer in his last three starts. In his last start on Thursday against the Giants, Teheran settled down nicely after giving up three early runs, all coming off the bat of Buster Posey, and shut down the Giants over seven innings. He struck out three without issuing a walk as he won his second game of the season which also happened to be the only win in the four-game series with the Giants.

Justin Upton's return to the desert:
Justin Upton was the first overall pick for the D-backs in the 2005 MLB Draft and played with the team from 2007-2012, making two All-Star teams and leading the D-backs to two playoff appearances. In his first game back as a visitor last night, Upton showed the D-backs what they are missing, going 4-for-5 including a massive moonshot to center field. Upton finished only a triple shy of the cycle.

The "throw-in" burns his former team:
The other guy that was sent to the Braves this past January along with Justin Upton absolutely unloaded on his former team last night. Chris Johnson went 3-for-4 with a HR and 3 RBI and like Justin Upton, finished a triple shy of the cycle. After being traded to the D-backs at the trade deadline last season from the Astros, Johnson hit .286/.321/.503 with 7 HR and 35 RBI in 44 games.

Prado struggling to begin the season:
Martin Prado, the fan favorite among Braves fans, was traded to Arizona along with Randall Delgado and three other Minor League prospects for Upton and Johnson. But so far this season, Prado has struggled in the middle of the D-backs lineup hitting .233/.285/.346 with 4 HR and only 9 RBI. He's hoping that this series against his old mates can get his bat going. Prado went 2-for-2 last night with a double and a walk after going hitless in his last two games.

Side note:
BJ Upton left Monday's game with a left shoulder contusion after being hit by Wade Miley in the 6th inning. Upton is listed as day-to-day and is not in tonight's lineup.
Teheran made his second Major League start against the D-backs at Chase Field and allowed two runs on six hits, walked two and struck out a batter in just four innings and earned a no decision.
Corbin's only experience against the Braves came last season when he worked three scoreless innings in relief.

Monday, May 13, 2013

Game 38 Preview: Atlanta Braves (21-16) at Arizona Diamondbacks (21-17)

Pitching Probables:
Mike Minor (ATL) 4-2, 2.96 ERA
Wade Miley (ARZ) 3-1, 2.93 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (9:40 pm ET, SportSouth)

Braves (career vs. Miley):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Justin Upton - RF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (1-3, HR, 2 RBI)
Evan Gattis - LF (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (1-1)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-3, HR, 2 RBI, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-3, RBI, K)
Mike Minor - P (0-1)

D-Backs (career vs. Minor):
AJ Pollock - CF (0-3, RBI)
Didi Gregorius - SS (N/A)
Paul Goldschmidt - 1B (1-3)
Cody Ross - LF (4-6, 2B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 2 K)
Martin Prado - 3B (N/A)
Gerardo Parra - RF (1-3)
Wil Nieves - C (2-3, 2B, RBI, BB)
Josh Wilson - 2B (N/A)
Wade Miley - P (N/A)

Preview:
Justin Upton is making his return to Arizona. The Braves slugger, who was traded by the D-Backs to the Braves this past offseason, makes his anticipated return to Chase Field on Monday for the first time as a visitor when the Braves and D-Backs begin a three-game series.
Upton's tenure in Arizona was full of highs, as well as lows, but with trade rumors swirling around Upton and the D-Backs regarding where he may end up and why the franchise would trade a player of his caliber, Upton and Chris Johnson were dealt to the Braves for Martin Prado, Randall Delgado, and three other highly talented prospects.
The trade has worked out for both teams to this point, with Upton -- leading the Majors in home runs with 12 -- has the Braves atop the NL East through 37 games. The D-Backs are 2nd in the NL West, 2 games back of the Giants. Tonight will also mark the first time that Martin Prado will face his former ball club in the Braves.

Mike Minor takes mound:
Braves LHP takes the mound tonight in hopes of snapping the team's three-game losing streak. Minor is also in search for his 5th win of 2013. In his previous start against the Reds last Wednesday, Minor was brilliant by allowing only a run on four hits, walked three, and struck out seven over seven innings as the Braves won the game 7-2 and took 2 of 3 from the Reds, who lost their first home series of the season.

Wade Miley rebounding nicely:
D-Backs LHP Wade Miley looks to turn in another strong outing as he did in his last start against the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Miley allowed two runs on seven hits and struck out four over 7 2/3 innings as he earned his third win of the season. Prior to that start against the Dodgers, Miley struggled against the Padres, giving up four runs on nine hits, walked three, and struck out four over five innings in the loss.

Side note:
In Mike Minor's lone start against Arizona, he allowed two runs (one earned) in eight innings while striking out nine to earn the win.
Wade Miley's only start against the Braves came on August 20, 2011, his Major League debut. Miley surrendered five runs on seven hits, walked two, and struck out five in four innings as he and the D-Backs took the loss, 8-1. He owns a 12.71 ERA in his career against Atlanta.
Chris Johnson has been ice-cold as of late, going hitless in his last 18 at-bats.

Friday, May 10, 2013

Game 35 Preview: Atlanta Braves (21-13) at San Francisco Giants (20-15)

Pitching Probables:
Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-1, 3.83 ERA
Matt Cain (SF) 1-2, 5.57 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (10:15 pm ET, FS South)

Braves (career vs. Cain):
Jordan Schafer - RF (1-9, RBI, BB,2 K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Justin Upton - LF (13-47, 5 2B, RBI, 7 BB, 14 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-3, 2 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (4-19, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 4 BB, 6 K)
Brian McCann - C (5-18, 2 2B, 4 RBI, 3 BB, 3 K)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Juan Francisco - 3B (N/A)
Tim Hudson - P (0-2, K)

Giants (career vs. Hudson):
Angel Pagan - CF (11-34, 2B, HR, 5 RBI, BB, 8 K)
Marco Scutaro - 2B (0-7)
Pablo Sandoval - 3B (2-17, RBI)
Buster Posey - C (6-10, RBI, BB)
Hunter Pence - RF (7-18, 2B, 2 BB, K)
Brandon Belt - 1B (1-7, 2 K)
Andres Torres - LF (1-6, BB, 2 K)
Brandon Crawford - SS (1-6, RBI)
Matt Cain - P (0-1, K)

Preview:
Is the Giants ace back to normal? Giants and their fans are wondering after his spectacular start against the Dodgers to earn his first victory of 2013. Cain allowed just a single run on five hits, three walks, and struck out four over 7 1/3 innings to improve to 1-2 and lowered his ERA to 5.57. San Francisco will get their answer tonight when the Braves and Giants square off for the second game of a three-game series at AT&T Park. After allowing seven runs to the Brewers on April 18th, Cain has had three starts in which he pitched at least six innings and allowed four runs or fewer.
Opposing Matt Cain will be Tim Hudson, who is 2-0 with a 3.10 ERA in his last three starts. Hudson (4-1, 3.83 ERA), recorded his second consecutive win last Sunday against the Mets, compiling career win No. 201 as he allowed three runs on five hits, walked one, and struck out seven over 7 1/3 innings as the Braves beat the Mets 9-4.

Jonny Venters' mound session cut short:
Jonny Venters threw off the mound for the first time on Thursday after receiving a platelet-rich plasma injection on April 2nd and felt some discomfort in his injured left elbow. Venters had planned to throw 20 pitches during the seesion, but only threw 10 before feeling the discomfort. Venters first felt discomfort in his left elbow in the final two weeks of Spring Training and received the PRP injection form Dr. James Andrews.  Venters has been on the disabled list since.

Side note:
Braves RHP Brandon Beachy completed his first live batting session on Thursday and if all goes well in his session on Monday, he could begin his Minor League rehab assignment on Wednesday or Thursday.
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez missed Friday night's game and will miss tonight's game against the Giants to attend the college graduation of his daughter.
Tim Hudson is 8-4 with a 3.17 ERA in 17 career starts against the Giants.
Matt Cain is 3-2 in six career starts against the Braves with an ERA of 3.16.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Series Preview: Atlanta Braves (20-13) at San Francisco Giants (20-14)

Pitching Probables:
Thu: Julio Teheran (ATL) 1-0, 5.08 ERA vs. Ryan Vogelsong (SF) 1-2, 7.20 ERA
Fri: Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-1, 3.83 ERA vs. Matt Cain (SF) 1-2, 5.57 ERA
Sat: Paul Maholm (ATL) 4-3, 3.09 ERA vs. Madison Bumgarner (SF) 3-1, 2.31 ERA
Sun: Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-4, 3.25 ERA vs. Tim Lincecum (SF) 2-2, 4.75 ERA

Comparison by Position:
C:
Brian McCann (ATL) .125/.222/.125 0 HR 2 RBI (in 2 games)
Buster Posey (SF) .288/.392/.500 4 HR 19 RBI
1B:
Freddie Freeman (ATL) .316/.388/.447 2 HR 18 RBI
Brandon Belt (SF) .212/.282/.337 3 HR 14 RBI
2B:
Dan Uggla (ATL) .209/.315/.445 7 HR 12 RBI
Marco Scutaro (SF) .282/.333/.363 0 HR 6 RBI
3B:
Chris Johnson (ATL) .320/.353/.454 2 HR 9 RBI
Juan Francisco (ATL) .280/.316/.493 5 HR 16 RBI
Pablo Sandoval (SF) .318/.357/.455 4 HR 24 RBI
SS:
Andrelton Simmons (ATL) .276/.323/.431 4 HR 15 RBI
Brandon Crawford (SF) .252/.326/.470 5 HR 15 RBI
LF:
Evan Gattis (ATL) .243/.286/.524 7 HR 19 RBI
Gregor Blanco (SF) .284/.359/.321 0 HR 8 RBI
Andres Torres (SF) .262/.294/.369 1 HR 4 RBI
CF:
BJ Upton (ATL) .153/.240/.270 3 HR 5 RBI
Angel Pagan (SF) .268/.319/.358 1 HR 14 RBI
RF:
Justin Upton (ATL) .276/.386/.629 12 HR 21 RBI
Hunter Pence (SF) .287/.324/.515 7 HR 21 RBI

Tonight's Starting Lineups (10:15 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network)

Braves (career vs. Vogelsong):
Jordan Schafer - RF (2-3, HR, RBI, BB)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Justin Upton - LF (4-13, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (3-7, 2 HR, 2 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-6, BB, 3 K)
Brian McCann - C (0-5, BB, K)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Juan Francisco - 3B (1-2, HR, RBI)
Julio Teheran - P (N/A)

Giants (career vs. Teheran):
Angel Pagan - CF (1-1, BB)
Marco Scutaro - 2B (N/A)
Pablo Sandoval - 3B (N/A)
Buster Posey - C (N/A)
Hunter Pence - RF (0-1)
Gregor Blanco - LF (N/A)
Brandon Crawford - SS (N/A)
Brandon Belt - 1B (N/A)
Ryan Vogelsong - P (N/A)

Preview:
It seems like the unexpected day off -- due to Saturday's rainout against the Mets -- was all the Braves needed to snap out of their recent slump. Prior to last Saturday's postponement, the Braves had lost three straight and seven of nine during that stretch. They begin their four-game series with the Giants having won three of their last four games. The only question one would have is will Julio Teheran benefit from the extra days of rest due to the rainout or will it derail him? Teheran who was supposed to start in last Saturday's game, was skipped in the rotation and will take the mound for the first time since April 29th tonight at AT&T Park in San Francisco. After struggling in his first three starts, allowing at least four earned runs in each of those outings, Teheran seems to have turned a corner, conceding only two runs or fewer in his last two outings. The 22-year-old righty looks to build off his recent strong performances, despite having nine days of rest.
For the Giants, Bruce Bochy will send out Ryan Vogelsong who unlike Teheran, has been unable to put his early season struggles behind him. Vogelsong will take the hill sporting an ERA of 7.20 as well as a 1-2 record. Dodgers tagged Vogelsong for seven runs on nine hits over 4 2/3 innings last Saturday, marking his shortest outing of the season. Vogelsong has allowed at least four runs in five of his six starts this season.
Vogelsong's pitching performances have epitomized the struggles of the Giants rotation. Giants starters have turned in only three quality starts in the past eleven games. Giants are 7-4 during that stretch, but their starting pitchers earned just one of those wins.

Braves closer Craig Kimbrel remains 1 save shy of 100:
Whenever Kimbrel notches his next save, he will be the second youngest pitcher in Major League history to reach the 100 save mark. Kimbrel is aiming to join Francisco Rodriguez or "K-Rod" as the only closer to reach that mark before their 25th birthday. Right now, Kimbrel is focused on pitching his way out of some recent struggles. He has blown three saves in his past five attempts, including allowing back-to-back homers to Devin Mesoraco and Shin-Soo Choo on Tuesday night. I'm no pitching coach, but it seems as if Kimbrel is relying on his fastball TOO much. In the home runs he gave up to David Wright, Devin Mesoraco, and Shin-Soo Choo, the location of his fastball was low and at the knees. If he can get his confidence back, mix his pitches better, and elevate his fastball, he'll snap out of his slump in no time.

Side note:
Freddie Freeman is 3-for-7 in his career against Vogelsong with a pair of home runs.
Tonight will be Teheran first career start against the Giants.
In three career appearances against the Braves (two starts), Vogelsong is 1-0 with a 2.30 ERA.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Game Recap: Atlanta Braves (20-13) at Cincinnati Reds (19-16)

Coming off last night's disappointing loss, Braves looked to bounce back and take 2 of 3 from the Reds at the Great American Ball Park. Reds have yet to lose a series at home so far this season. Mike Minor got the ball today for the Braves. Opposing Minor was Mike Leake, who was looking for a strong outing today to ensure he has a spot in the rotation when Johnny Cueto returns from injury. With a trip out west looming after today's game, Fredi Gonzalez gave BJ and Justin Upton and Brian McCann the day off.

1st inning:
Mike Leake got off to a fast start by striking out lead off man, Jordan Schafer to begin the game. Red-hot Andrelton Simmons then singled, but was stranded on base as Freddie Freeman flied out to left and Evan Gattis struck out.

News Photo: Mike Minor of the Atlanta Braves pitches against…
CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 8: Mike Minor #36 of the Atlanta Braves pitches against the Cincinnati Reds during the game at Great American Ball Park on May 8, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

Mike Minor came out firing on all cylinders as well by getting Shin-Soo Choo and Zack Cozart to fly out to Reed Johnson in right. Minor capped off his first inning of work by striking out Joey Votto. No score after the end of the 1st inning.

2nd inning:
Dan Uggla led off the top half of the 2nd inning for the Braves and was disposed by Leake via the strikeout. Juan Francisco lined a 1-2 pitch back to the mound, deflected off of Leake to Phillips, who then threw out Francisco for the second out. Reed Johnson became Leake's 4th strikeout victim as the Braves were retired in order.
Brandon Phillips led off the bottom of the 2nd with a one-out double over the head of Jordan Schafer. Minor, who had walked only five batters all season coming into today, allowed back-to-back walks to Jay Bruce and Todd Frazier to load the bases with no outs. Donald Lutz hit a fly ball to Gattis who made the catch and guns down Brandon Phillips at the plate to complete the double play. Minor officially got out of the 2nd inning mess by forcing Mesoraco to ground out to Simmons. No score after 2 innings.

3rd inning:
Leading off the inning for the Braves was Gerald Laird, who was making his first start since April 29th. He was hit by pitch, but was quickly retired as Minor sac bunt attempt failed, leading to a 1-6 fielder's choice. Schafer and Simmons followed with back-to-back singles to load the bases with one out. Up next was 2-out RBI machine, Freddie Freeman. Unfortunately for the Braves, Freeman was unable to come through and grounded into the 4-6-3 double play to end the Braves half of the 3rd.
Mike Leake, who has had some success against Minor, led off the bottom half of the 3rd for the Reds. Minor quickly gets rid of him via the strikeout. Shin-Soo Choo followed with a ground out to Uggla at second. On the 3-2 pitch, Zack Cozart lines a solo home run over the left field wall, giving the Reds the early 1-0 lead. Joey Votto flied out to Gattis in right to end the inning. Reds lead 1-0 after 3 innings.

4th inning:
Evan Gattis led off the 4th inning for the Braves and struck out for the second time in as many appearances. Next up was Dan Uggla, who has warmed up considerably over the last few games. Uggla absolutely torched the first pitch of the at-bat from Leake and deposited the ball into the left field seats to tie the game, 1-1. Juan Francisco and Reed Johnson both grounded out to Phillips at second to end the Braves half of the 4th.
Mike Minor made quick work of the Reds in the bottom of the inning. Brandon Phillips flied out to Reed Johnson in right for the first out. Jay Bruce followed with a fly out to Schafer in center. Minor then struck out Frazier to retire the side. 1-1 tie after 4 innings.

5th inning:
Gerald Laird again the led off the inning, but grounded out to Frazier at third for the first out. Leake then struck out Minor for the second out. With two outs in the inning, Schafer laced a triple, the third for the Braves in the last four games. But Schafer was stranded at third as Simmons grounded out to Cozart at short.
Mike Minor continued to cruise along as Donald Lutz led off with a ground out right back to Minor for out number one. Devin Mesoraco, who hit the game-tying home run off Kimbrel last night, flied out to Schafer in center for the second out. Leake singled off Minor, his second hit in six at-bats against Minor. Nut was stranded as Minor struck out Choo to end the inning. 1-1 tie after 5 innings.

6th inning:

News Photo: Dan Uggla of the Atlanta Braves hits his…
CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 8: Dan Uggla #26 of the Atlanta Braves hits his second home run of the game in the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 8, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Braves won 7-2. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

Freddie Freeman led off the 6th with a 4-pitch walk, but was quickly erased as Gattis grounded into the 4-3 double play. On the 3-2 pitch, Uggla continued his torrid streak and obliterated another Mike Leake pitch into the left field seats for his second home run of the game and the seventh this season. Francisco popped out to Votto to end the Braves half of the 6th.
Minor's dominance continued as Cozart flied out to Gattis for the first out. Minor then struck out Votto and Phillips to retire the Reds in order in the 6th. Braves lead 2-1 after 6 innings.

7th inning:
Reed Johnson led off the 7th with a fly out to Lutz in left for the first out of the inning. Gerald Laird then pops out to Votto in foul territory for out number two. Leake was able to get Minor to ground out to Cozart at short to retire the Braves in order.
Minor easily retired the first two batters of the inning by getting Jay Bruce to fly out to Schafer in center and struck out Todd Frazier. Lutz then laced a 2-out to single to walk and Mesoraco followed with a walk. Instead of going with a pinch hitter, Reds manager Dusty Baker opted to keep Leake in the game to hit for himself and promptly flew out to Justin Upton in left, who came in to replace Evan Gattis. Braves lead 2-1 after 7 innings.

8th inning:

News Photo: Juan Francisco of the Atlanta Braves hits a…
CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 8: Juan Francisco #25 of the Atlanta Braves hits a grand slam home run in the eighth inning against the Cincinnati Reds during the game at Great American Ball Park on May 8, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

Jordan Schafer led off the inning with a line drive single to right. Simmons followed with a single as well, his 3rd hit of the afternoon so far. That spelled the end of Mike Leake who pitched impressively against this Braves lineup. Sean Marshall came in to replace Leake and Freddie Freeman greets him rudely with an RBI single to score Schafer as the Braves extend their lead to 3-1. Marshall was quickly replaced by JJ Hoover who then walked Justin Upton to load the bases for Uggla. Dan didn't come through this time as he grounds into the 6-2 force out, but the bases remained loaded with one out. Up next was Juan Francisco, who was traded to the Braves in 2012 for JJ Hoover, who so happened to be on the mound. Juan Francisco proved to that the Braves won that trade as he hit a laser over the right field wall for his first career grand slam, opening up the lead, 7-1. Reed Johnson then walked, but Hoover was able to retire Laird and pinch hitter Chris Johnson to retire the side.
Anthony Varvaro came in to pitch for the Braves and quickly struck out Shin-Soo Choo for the first out. Zack Cozart singled off of Varvaro (literally) with one out. Cozart was stranded as Votto grounded out to Freeman at first and Phillips grounded out to Francisco at third to end the inning. Braves lead 7-1 after 8 innings.

9th inning:
Alfredo Simon came in to pitch the 9th for the Reds and quickly retired Schafer for the first out. Simmons doubles on a soft line drive to right, his 4th hit of the day and 8th hit of the series. Simmons was stranded as Freeman flied out to Lutz in left and Justin Upton grounded out to Frazier at third.
Varvaro stayed in to finish off the game, but quickly gave up a solo home run to Jay Bruce to pull the Reds to within five runs. Todd Fraizer followed with a single, but Varvaro settled down as he got Lutz to pop out to Simmons and struck out Mesoraco and pinch hitter Jack Hannahan to end the ball game. Braves win 7-2 and take 2 of 3 from the defending NL Central champs.

WP: Mike Minor (4-2) LP: Mike Leake (2-2)

Player(s) of the Game - Mike Minor/Braves offense
Mike Minor pitched another gem this afternoon, allowing one run on four hits, walked three batters, and struck out seven over seven innings as he won his fourth ballgame of 2013 and lowers his ERA to 2.96.
Braves offense came through without the likes of Brian McCann, BJ Upton, and Justin Upton (for 6 innings) as the offense put a seven runs, highlighted by Dan Uggla's 2 home runs and Juan Francisco's 1st career grand slam.

Conclusion:
Huge start to the 10-game road trip for the Braves as they took 2 out of 3 from the Reds. The Braves are the first road team this season to win a series in Cincinnati. Braves head out west to San Francisco to begin a 4-game weekend series with the defending World Series champion San Francisco Giants. Julio Teheran is set to pitch tomorrow night. His last start was skipped due to last Saturday's rain out against the Mets. Opposing Teheran will be Ryan Vogelsong of the Giants.



Game 33 Preview: Atlanta Braves (19-13) at Cincinnati Reds (19-15)

Pitching Probables:
Mike Minor (ATL) 3-2, 3.26 ERA
Mike Leake (CIN) 2-1, 4.15 ERA

Today's Starting Lineups (12:35 pm ET, SportSouth/MLB Network)

Braves (career vs. Leake):
Jordan Schafer - CF (3-12, RBI, 4 K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-6, 2 K)
Evan Gattis - LF (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-7, 2B, HR, 3 RBI, BB, 3 K)
Juan Francisco - 3B (1-3, HR, RBI)
Reed Johnson - RF (1-3, K)
Gerald Laird - C (N/A)
Mike Minor - P (0-2, K)

Reds (career vs. Minor):
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (N/A)
Zack Cozart - SS (2-4, HR, RBI)
Joey Votto - 1B (1-3, 2 BB)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (0-3, K)
Jay Bruce - RF (2-3, BB, K)
Todd Frazier - 3B (0-3, 2 K)
Donald Lutz - LF (N/A)
Devin Mesoraco - C (0-3)
Mike Leake - P (1-3, HR, RBI)

Preview:
Reds starting pitchers have struggled as of late, having not recorded a single quality start in their last six games, yet the Redlegs are 4-2 in that stretch. Twice in the last four games, including last night, Cincinnati pulled off late-inning rallies to storm off as winners. When their starters are struggling, the Reds offense has been there to pick them up.
Mike Leake looks to give the offense some support today as he takes the mound against Mike Minor and the scuffling Braves, who have gone 7-12 since their torrid 12-1 start. Leake has a respectable ERA of 4.15, but has struggled to stay consistent, putting together only two quality starts in six starts this season. In his last two outings, Leake has pitched a combined 8 2/3 innings, allowing six runs (five earned) and struck out four.
On the contrary, Mike Minor has flourished so far in 2013, allowing three runs or less in five of his six starts this season. Minor has cut down on his walks, allowing only five in 38 2/3 innings. But he still struggles with giving up the long ball, allowing five which has cost him dearly in his last two outings. In his last start Friday night against the Mets, Minor scattered three runs on three hits and struck out four over seven innings as the bullpen blew the lead in the 8th and 9th innings.

Uptons, McCann out of lineup:
BJ and Justin Upton will get the day off today as a seven-game west coast swing looms. Today will be the first time this season that Justin Upton has not been in the lineup. BJ reached base twice in last night's game, only the second time in his last 16 games he's done such. Jordan Schafer starts in BJ's place in CF while Reed Johnson will get the start in RF.
Brian McCann, as expected, gets the day off today (day game after a night game). McCann's first hit of the season drove in two runs in the 1st inning of last night's game. Gerald Laird gets the start behind the plate.

Side note:
Jason Heyward took batting practice before yesterday's game which is obviously a good sign. He hasn't played since undergoing an emergency appendectomy on April 22 in Colorado. Heyward hopes to begin rehab assignments soon and looks to be a couple weeks away at most from returning to the lineup.
In his only start against the Reds on May 21, 2012, Minor allowed four runs on five hits, walked four, struck out four, and gave up four home runs over six innings as he took the loss 4-1.
Mike Leake is 2-0 with a 1.35 ERA in three career starts against the Braves.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Game 32 Preview: Atlanta Braves (19-12) at Cincinnati Reds (18-15)

Pitching Probables:
Kris Medlen (ATL) 1-4, 3.38 ERA
Homer Bailey (CIN) 1-3, 3.38 ERA

Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth/MLB Network)

Braves (career vs. Bailey):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Justin Upton - RF (N/A)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (1-6)
Evan Gattis - LF (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (0-4, 2 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-13, 3 BB, 2 K)
Juan Francisco - 3B (0-2, 2 K)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)

Reds (career vs. Medlen):
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (N/A)
Zack Cozart - SS (1-2)
Joey Votto - 1B (2-3, 2B, RBI)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (1-3)
Jay Bruce - RF (0-3, 3 K)
Xavier Paul - LF (N/A)
Jack Hannahan - 3B (N/A)
Corky Miller - C (N/A)
Homer Bailey - P (N/A)

Preview:
Homer Bailey gets the start in hopes to continue his dominance in night games this season. Bailey (1-3, 3.38 ERA) enters play tonight as the National League's best night game pitcher, posting a 0.43 ERA in three starts under the lights. With the exception of two starts, Bailey has been impressive, turning in four quality starts in his last six. But in his last start against the Cardinals, Bailey struggled allowing four runs on nine hits, walked a batter, and struck out three over 5 1/3 innings as he took the loss, 4-2. Bailey has had success against the Braves in his career, going 2-0 with a 2.41 ERA in three starts.
Kris Medlen (1-4, 3.38 ERA) opposes Bailey tonight as he looks to snap his three-start losing streak. Despite not being as dominant as he was last season, he has still been impressive. In his last start against Medlen, he pitched solidly, allowing three runs on seven hits, walked three, and struck out eight over seven innings as he took the loss to the Nats, 4-1. Medlen's win-loss record does not reflect how well he has been pitching, despite having mechanical issues in his delivery. Lack of run support has also been an issue when Medlen has pitched. In his six starts, Braves have scored only 16 runs. Hopefully, the Braves can give Medlen the same amount of run support as they did for Paul Maholm last night.

Welcome back, B-Mac:
Brian McCann was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Monday and made his season debut, going 0-for-4 with a walk.
McCann is a career .318 hitter at Great American Ball Park. His 10 home runs he's hit at the ballpark is the second-most home runs he's hit at any road ballpark (Citizens Bank Park, 11 home runs).

Juan Francisco back in lineup:
Juan Francisco was listed as day-to-day after leaving Friday's game against the Mets with a mild right ankle sprain. Francisco's ankle feels better and will start at 3B tonight and hit 8th in the lineup.

Side note:
Chris Johnson (.323 avg) will not be in the lineup tonight. He has 9 multi-hit games in his last 17, but is hitless  (0-for-9) in his career against Bailey.
Braves closer Craig Kimbrel notched his 10th save last night and is one away from his 100th save of his career.
Special shoutout to the Alpharetta girl's golf team for making state for the first time ever!

Monday, May 6, 2013

(19-12) Atlanta Braves at (18-15) Cincinnati Reds Recap

"CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 6: Paul Maholm #28 of the Atlanta Braves talks with Brian McCann #16 during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 6, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)"

Coming off a 9-4 win over the New York Mets, Atlanta will enter a critical series on the road against one of the National League's best offense, the Cincinnati Reds. Two of the elite teams in the National League, Braves and Reds, get together for a three-game series beginning tonight at the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. Reds manager Dusty Baker is on the cusp of a managerial milestone, one more win gets him his 1,600th career win, passing legendary Dodgers manager, Tommy Lasorda for 18th on the all-time list. Reds come into their six-game home stand with a 12-4 record at GABP and have yet to lose a home series. Braves look to change that as Paul Maholm will get the ball in the first of the three game series. Maholm (3-3, 3.08 ERA) got the short end of the stick in last Wednesday's 2-0 loss to the Nationals. Maholm pitched eight fantastic innings, but made only one mistake, which was the Ian Desmond home run in the 4th inning, that cost him the game. Braves offense hopes to back Maholm with some run support tonight in the launch pad that is the Great American Ball Park. Opposing Maholm will be veteran pitcher, Bronson Arroyo. Like Maholm, Arroyo (2-3, 3.95 ERA) was the victim of bad fortune in his last start against the Cardinals. He pitched seven strong innings while allowing two runs on six hits, as he was out-dueled by Jaime Garcia in the 2-1 loss. Arroyo has been effective lately, holding the opposition to two earned runs in three of his past four starts. Tonight will also mark the first time of the season that Brian McCann  who is in the final year of his contract, underwent shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder this past off-season. Braves lost five of six games to the Reds in 2012, including being swept in a four-game series in Cincinnati. Reds have also beaten the Braves six consecutive times in Cincinnati, dating back to 2011. Atlanta would look to start their road trip off on the right note, with a Braves victory. 


FIRST INNING:

In Atlanta's first offensive stint, B.J. Upton opens the game by striking out with the first out of the game. Chris Johnson walked with one out of the inning. Justin Upton singles on a soft fly ball to right fielder Jay Bruce. Chris Johnson to 3rd. Freddie Freeman singles on a line drive to right fielder Jay Bruce. Chris Johnson scores. Justin Upton to 2nd and gave the Braves a 1-0 lead. After Evan Gattis struck out swinging, Brian McCann walks. Justin Upton to 3rd. Freddie Freeman to 2nd to load the bases with two outs in the inning and Dan Uggla was called out on strikes and took their 1-0 lead into the bottom frame. In the Reds first offensive stretch, Shin-Soo Choo called out on strikes; followed by Zack Cozart called out on strikes for the second out and would get a 1-2-3 inning as Joey Votto lined out to left fielder Evan Gattis as the Braves led 1-0 heading into the next inning.

SECOND INNING:


"CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 6: Andrelton Simmons #19 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after hitting a home run in the second inning of the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 6, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)"
Andrelton Simmons opened Atlanta's second offensive inning with a homer on a line drive to left field to push the Braves lead to 2-0. It was Simmons third home run of the 2013 MLB season. After Simmons home run, the Braves couldn't make any more noise as Paul Maholm grounds out, second baseman Brandon Phillips to first baseman Joey Votto; followed by B. J. Upton strikes out swinging and finally, Chris Johnson called out on strikes and Atlanta took a 2-0 lead into the bottom of the frame. In Cincinnati's next stretch, Brandon Phillips grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman; followed by Jay Bruce strikes out swinging and would turn a 1-2-3 inning as Todd Frazier grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman and the Braves maintained their 2-0 lead.

THIRD INNING:

As for the Braves third stint, Justin Upton flies out to left fielder Derrick Robinson. Freddie Freeman would earn his second hit as he  doubles on a line drive to right fielder Jay Bruce with one out. However, the Braves couldn't capitalize as Evan Gattis lines out, pitcher Bronson Arroyo to second baseman Brandon Phillips to first baseman Joey Votto. Freddie Freeman to 3rd and Brian McCann grounds out to first baseman Joey Votto. In Cincinnati's next stretch, Devin Mesoraco grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Derrick Robinson singles on a line drive to right fielder Justin Upton to put a runner on with one out; however, the Reds wouldn't capitalize as Bronson Arroyo out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Brian McCann to second baseman Dan Uggla. Derrick Robinson to 2nd with two outs and Shin-Soo Choo lines out to shortstop Andrelton Simmons and the Braves maintained a 2-0 lead.

FOURTH INNING:

Dan Uggla opened the Braves next inning with a huge triple on a line drive to center fielder Shin-Soo Choo with no outs. Andrelton Simmons singles on a ground ball to left fielder Derrick Robinson, deflected by shortstop Zack Cozart. Dan Uggla scores and the Braves lead 3-0 with no outs. Paul Maholm reaches on a force attempt, throwing error by catcher Devin Mesoraco. Andrelton Simmons to 2nd to place two men on with no outs. B. J. Upton struck out swinging for the first out of the inning. Chris Johnson grounds into a double play, shortstop Zack Cozart to second baseman Brandon Phillips to first baseman Joey Votto. Paul Maholm out at 2nd and the Braves offensive stretch came to an end. The Reds opened their next stint with Zack Cozart singles on a line drive to left fielder Evan Gattis with no outs. Joey Votto walks. Zack Cozart to 2nd with no outs posing the first threat of the game for Cincinnati. The Reds would capitalize as Brandon Phillips doubles on a line drive to left fielder Evan Gattis. Zack Cozart scores. Joey Votto to 3rd to cut the Braves lead to 3-1. Jay Bruce grounds out to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Joey Votto scores. Brandon Phillips to 3rd would trim the lead down to 3-2. Todd Frazier called out on strikes for the second out and Devin Mesoraco grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman as the Braves lead was now trimmed to 3-2.

FIFTH INNING:
"CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 6: Evan Gattis #24 of the Atlanta Braves doubles to drive in a run in the fifth inning of the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 6, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)"

Justin Upton would open up the inning as he singled on a sharp ground ball to right fielder Jay Bruce with no outs. Freddie Freeman lined out to left fielder Derrick Robinson for the first out. Atlanta would capitalize as Evan Gattis doubled on a line drive to center fielder Shin-Soo Choo. Justin Upton scores and pushed the Braves lead to 4-2. Brian McCann grounds out to first baseman Joey Votto. Evan Gattis to 3rd for the second out of the inning and Dan Uggla called out on strikes as the Braves maintained their two run lead. As Cincinnati started their next stretch, Derrick Robinson would walk with nobody out. Bronson Arroyo out on a sacrifice bunt, catcher Brian McCann to second baseman Dan Uggla. Derrick Robinson to 2nd. Shin-Soo Choo hit by pitch. Zack Cozart would strike out swinging for the second out and Joey Votto grounds into a force out, third baseman Chris Johnson to second baseman Dan Uggla. Shin-Soo Choo out at 2nd as the Braves ended the threat and maintained their 4-2 lead.

SIXTH INNING:

Pitching Change: Alfredo Simon replaces Bronson Arroyo as he left the game pitching (5.0) innings, allowed (8) hits, (4) earned runs, (2) walks, one home run and struck out (7) batters. As for the Braves, Andrelton Simmons strikes out swinging; followed by Paul Maholm called out on strikes and would go down in a 1-2-3 inning as B. J. Upton strikes out swinging. In the Reds next offensive stretch, Brandon Phillips grounds out, shortstop Andrelton Simmons to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Jay Bruce called out on strikes for the second out. Todd Frazier singles on a line drive to left fielder Evan Gattis. Todd Frazier advances to 2nd, on a fielding error by left fielder Evan Gattis. Pitching Change: Cory Gearrin replaced Paul Maholm who pitched (5.2) innings, allowed (4) hits, (2) earned runs, (2) walks, and struck out (6) batters. With Devin Mesoraco batting, wild pitch by Cory Gearrin, Todd Frazier to 3rd; however, Devin Mesoraco called out on strikes and Atlanta maintained their 4-2 lead into the next frame. 

SEVENTH INNING:

In Atlanta's next offensive stint, the Braves would go down in a 1-2-3 fashion as Chris Johnson, Justin Upton, and Freddie Freeman would all strike out. As the Reds came out to bat, Cesar Izturis grounds out, second baseman Dan Uggla to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Also, the Braves made another pitching change inserting reliever Luis Avilan in the lineup. Donald Lutz strikes out swinging for the second of the inning. After Shin-Soo Choo walks, with Zack Cozart batting, Shin-Soo Choo picked off and caught stealing 2nd base, pitcher Luis Avilan to first baseman Freddie Freeman to shortstop Andrelton Simmons and Atlanta continued to hold on to their 4-2 lead.

EIGHTH INNING:

As the Braves came up to bat, Evan Gattis pops out to shortstop Zack Cozart for the first out; followed by Brian McCann strikes out swinging. Dan Uggla kept the inning alive as he singles on a ground ball to center fielder Shin-Soo Choo. Atlanta would capitalize as Andrelton Simmons homers on a fly ball to left field. Dan Uggla scores and the Braves took a 6-2 lead and would capitalize again as  Jordan Schafer homered on a fly ball to right field to put the Braves up 7-2. After B.J. Upton walked, Chris Johnson grounds out, third baseman Todd Frazier to first baseman Joey Votto. The Reds would put a small rally in their half of the inning as Zack Cozart doubled on a ground ball to left fielder Jordan Schafer with no outs. Joey Votto doubles  on a line drive to left fielder Jordan Schafer. Zack Cozart scores and trimmed the Braves lead to 7-3. The Reds continued their rally as Brandon Phillips singles on a line drive to right fielder Justin Upton. Joey Votto to 3rd with no outs. After Jordan Walden allowed those hits, he was pulled for reliever Eric O'Flaherty. After the pitching change, Jay Bruce flies out to left fielder Jordan Schafer for the first out. Todd Frazier grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Joey Votto scores. Brandon Phillips to 2nd and the Reds cut the lead to 7-4 and finally, Devin Mesoraco grounds out, third baseman Chris Johnson to first baseman Freddie Freeman as the Braves maintained their 7-4 lead into the final inning.

NINTH INNING:
"CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 6: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Atlanta Braves pitches the ninth inning of the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 6, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Braves won 7-4. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images"

In Atlanta's last offensive stint, Justin Upton walks with no outs. Freddie Freeman lines out to right fielder Jay Bruce for the first out; followed by Ramiro Pena strikes out swinging and Brian McCann flies out to left fielder Donald Lutz. Closer Craig Kimbrel came in to close the deal as Xavier Paul lines out to left fielder Jordan Schafer for the first out. After Donald Lutz singles on a ground ball to right fielder Justin Upton and Shin-Soo Choo singles on a ground ball to left fielder Jordan Schafer. Donald Lutz to 2nd to place two men with one out. However, the Braves would close it out as Zack Cozart pops out to first baseman Freddie Freeman on the infield fly rule and Joey Votto strikes out swinging as the Braves earned a win.


WINNING PITCHER:

Paul Malholm (4-3):

 (5.2) innings pitched, allowed (4) hits, (2) earned runs, (2) walks, and struck out (6) batters. 

LOSING PITCHER:

Bronson Arroyo (2-4):

(5.0) innings pitched, allowed (8) hits, (4) earned runs, (2) walks, one home run and struck out (7) batters.

SAVE:

Craig Kimbrel (10)


PLAYER OF THE GAME:

Andrelton Simmons:
"CINCINNATI, OH - MAY 6: Andrelton Simmons #19 of the Atlanta Braves hits a home run in the second inning of the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 6, 2013 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images"

The second year shortstop had a tremendous game on both offense and came up with a few great defensive plays. Simmons was (2-4) tonight and accounted for three Atlanta runs as he nailed a two-run homer in the fourth to give the Braves a 3-0 lead and would follow up with another two run homer in the eighth inning as well to give the Braves a commanding 6-2 lead. Simmons also made some great plays such as his pick off on shortstop Shin-Soo Cho in the game and had a consistent game defensively. If Andrelton Simmons can keep this kind of effort going, he will continue to provide the Braves offense with the spark that the team needs in games such as tonight's victory. He's continuing to open up his season providing a major boost to Atlanta's explosive offense. 


CONCLUSION:

Tonight's win earned the Braves their first in Cincinnati in their previous six trips as well as extending their winning streak as well. The Braves offense got a huge lift early and would never turn back scoring a whopping seven runs on the Reds at Great American Ball Park. Tomorrow, Kris Medlen will look to get out of his rough start of the 2013 MLB season and earn a win for Atlanta as well.   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!!!!