Pitching Probables:
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-3, 2.89 ERA
RHP Luis Mendoza (KC) 2-4, 4.30 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Braves (career vs. Mendoza):
Jordan Schafer - LF (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (N/A)
Justin Upton - DH (1-2, RBI, BB)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (N/A)
Gerald Laird - C (0-1)
BJ Upton - CF (2-3)
Dan Uggla - 2B (N/A)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Royals (career vs. Minor):
Alex Gordon - LF (0-3, 2 K)
Alcides Escobar - SS (2-3)
Eric Hosmer - 1B (N/A)
Billy Butler - DH (0-3, 2 K)
Salvador Perez - C (0-3)
Lorenzo Cain - CF (1-2)
Mike Moustakas - 3B (1-2)
Jeff Francoeur - RF (2-4, 2 RBI)
Miguel Tejada - 2B (0-2, K)
Preview:
There is no better way for Mike Minor to bounce back from his last outing against the Mets in which he allowed a season-high three homers than to face the Royals who have the fewest four-baggers in all of baseball with 41. Minor will need to stay on his guard as he takes the hill in tonight's series finale at Kauffman Stadium. Minor has given up 12 home runs this season, which is tied for 10th-most among NL pitchers.
In his last start, Minor just didn't have his off-speed pitches working and tried using his fastball to get guys out, but to no avail. He left too many pitches over the plate which allowed David Wright (twice) and Andrew Brown to take him deep.
Royals starting pitcher Luis Mendoza, who opposes Minor tonight, is hoping to build off his last start in which he retired the first 12 of 13 batters he face, then the Indians offense ate him alive with a three-run sixth innings in a 6-3 loss last Wednesday.
In a more general sense, both teams have pitched exceptionally well in the month of June. Braves boast the lowest ERA in the Majors at 2.71 through 24 games this month, while the Royals are right behind them at 2.76. The Blue Jays are the only team with an ERA under 3.00 in June.
Ramiro Pena injury update:
Braves INF Ramiro Pena will get a second opinion on his injured right shoulder in Atlanta today. He's battled right shoulder discomfort since landing awkwardly while making a diving stop along the third base line against the Dodgers on June 9.
Royals call up Will Smith for bullpen help:
Yesterday, the Royals called up Will Smith to take the place of struggling right-hander Kelvin Herrera in the bullpen. Herrera has given up eight home runs and 15 walks in 27 2/3 innings this season.
In seven relief appearances in Triple-A Omaha, Smith has recorded an ERA of 0.84 with one earned run and nine strikeouts. Smith pitched in last night's game as he faced the minimum in a scoreless ninth inning, including an inning-ending double play after hitting Jason Heyward with a pitch.
Side note:
Braves OF Jordan Schafer is 9-for-12 on stolen base attempts this season after swiping second in last night's game. The rest of the team is a combined 20-for-36. Schafer is again in the lineup tonight and will leadoff and play in left field.
Craig Kimbrel recorded his 22nd save of the season last night after getting out of a jam in which runners were at first and third with none out. The Braves victory was their 12th one-run win of the season.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Game 78 Preview: Atlanta Braves (44-33) at Kansas City Royals (35-38)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 4-7, 2.96 ERA
RHP Ervin Santana (KC) 5-5, 2.64 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Braves (career vs. Santana):
Jordan Schafer - LF (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (N/A)
Justin Upton - DH (1-3, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-3)
Brian McCann - C (1-7, RBI, K)
BJ Upton - CF (8-24, HR, 4 RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-3)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Royals (career vs. Medlen):
Alex Gordon - LF (1-4)
Alcides Escobar - SS (0-6, K)
Eric Hosmer - 1B (0-3, K)
Billy Butler - DH (0-3)
Salvador Perez - C (0-3, K)
Mike Moustakas - 3B (1-3)
David Lough - LF (N/A)
Elliot Johnson - 2B (N/A)
Jarrod Dyson - CF (N/A)
Preview:
This is the 17th season of Interleague play in Major League Baseball. Tonight will mark the first time the Braves have traveled to Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City. The two ball clubs have previously met eight times, with all three series coming at Turner Field, including the two-game set on April 16-17, when the teams split a game apiece in the series.
One of those matchups featured tonight's Braves starter, Kris Medlen. In that start on April 16 against the Royals, Kris Medlen received a no-decision, despite allowing just one run over seven magnificent innings. Medlen will get another shot against Kansas City tonight, as he looks to reverse his hard-luck losing trend. Medlen has a 2.96 ERA this season, yet sports a record of 4-7. In five of those seven losses, he's allowed three runs or fewer and has tossed a shutout with a no-decision in addition to the no-decision against the Royals. However, in his last start against the Mets, Medlen allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits and seven strikeouts through seven solid innings to get his fourth win of the season.
Backing up Medlen is a Braves offense that has been shutout three times since June 14 and has been blanked 11 times total this season, which is the most in the Majors.
Meanwhile, Royals starting pitcher Ervin Santana has been going through the same tough luck as Medlen. Royals offense has been mostly to blame for the team's recent rut, losing four of their last five games. The bats did wake up a bit on Sunday with a three-run fifth and eighth innings in the come back win against the White Sox
The main issue of the Royals offense all season long has been the middle of the lineup. The three, four, and five hitters have been underwhelming. Those spots in the order have combined to go 5-for-53 with just four RBIs during the past five games.
Justin Upton back in the lineup:
Braves OF Justin Upton did not play in the final two games of the series in Milwaukee due to a sore right hand. Upton will hit in his normal three-spot in tonight's game against starter Ervin Santana.
Fredi Gonzalez to use Upton as DH:
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez recently said he was unsure of who he would use as the DH during the visit in Kansas City, an American league ballpark. Dan Uggla, Brian McCann, Evan Gattis, and former Brave Juan Francisco has served as the team's designated hitter. Gonzalez knows his options were limited due to Evan Gattis' oblique injury which landed him on the disabled list. Gonzalez decided to use Justin Upton has the DH tonight due to his sore hand. Jordan Schafer will again play in left field and hit in the lead-off spot.
Ervin Santana in a good groove:
Royals P Ervin Santana takes the mound tonight looking for his eighth straight outing of pitching at least seven innings. In the month of June, Santana is 2-0 with a 0.94 ERA, allowing only three runs in 28 2/3 innings with opponents hitting only .165 against him in that stretch.
Santana has faced the Braves twice as a members of the Angels, with the most recent coming in May 2011 when he tossed a complete-game shutout while allowing only four hits.
Despite his gaudy 2.64 ERA, which is third among American League starters, Santana's record sits at 5-5 due to spotty run support from the Royals offense.
Side note:
Braves are 5-3 all-time against the Royals, including sweeping them back in 2010.
Atlanta is also the last team in the National League to play in Kauffman Stadium.
Royals claimed right-handed reliever Maikel Cleto off waivers on Sunday from the Cardinals and has been assigned to Triple-A Omaha.
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 4-7, 2.96 ERA
RHP Ervin Santana (KC) 5-5, 2.64 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Braves (career vs. Santana):
Jordan Schafer - LF (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (N/A)
Justin Upton - DH (1-3, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-3)
Brian McCann - C (1-7, RBI, K)
BJ Upton - CF (8-24, HR, 4 RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-3)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Royals (career vs. Medlen):
Alex Gordon - LF (1-4)
Alcides Escobar - SS (0-6, K)
Eric Hosmer - 1B (0-3, K)
Billy Butler - DH (0-3)
Salvador Perez - C (0-3, K)
Mike Moustakas - 3B (1-3)
David Lough - LF (N/A)
Elliot Johnson - 2B (N/A)
Jarrod Dyson - CF (N/A)
Preview:
This is the 17th season of Interleague play in Major League Baseball. Tonight will mark the first time the Braves have traveled to Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City. The two ball clubs have previously met eight times, with all three series coming at Turner Field, including the two-game set on April 16-17, when the teams split a game apiece in the series.
One of those matchups featured tonight's Braves starter, Kris Medlen. In that start on April 16 against the Royals, Kris Medlen received a no-decision, despite allowing just one run over seven magnificent innings. Medlen will get another shot against Kansas City tonight, as he looks to reverse his hard-luck losing trend. Medlen has a 2.96 ERA this season, yet sports a record of 4-7. In five of those seven losses, he's allowed three runs or fewer and has tossed a shutout with a no-decision in addition to the no-decision against the Royals. However, in his last start against the Mets, Medlen allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits and seven strikeouts through seven solid innings to get his fourth win of the season.
Backing up Medlen is a Braves offense that has been shutout three times since June 14 and has been blanked 11 times total this season, which is the most in the Majors.
Meanwhile, Royals starting pitcher Ervin Santana has been going through the same tough luck as Medlen. Royals offense has been mostly to blame for the team's recent rut, losing four of their last five games. The bats did wake up a bit on Sunday with a three-run fifth and eighth innings in the come back win against the White Sox
The main issue of the Royals offense all season long has been the middle of the lineup. The three, four, and five hitters have been underwhelming. Those spots in the order have combined to go 5-for-53 with just four RBIs during the past five games.
Justin Upton back in the lineup:
Braves OF Justin Upton did not play in the final two games of the series in Milwaukee due to a sore right hand. Upton will hit in his normal three-spot in tonight's game against starter Ervin Santana.
Fredi Gonzalez to use Upton as DH:
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez recently said he was unsure of who he would use as the DH during the visit in Kansas City, an American league ballpark. Dan Uggla, Brian McCann, Evan Gattis, and former Brave Juan Francisco has served as the team's designated hitter. Gonzalez knows his options were limited due to Evan Gattis' oblique injury which landed him on the disabled list. Gonzalez decided to use Justin Upton has the DH tonight due to his sore hand. Jordan Schafer will again play in left field and hit in the lead-off spot.
Ervin Santana in a good groove:
Royals P Ervin Santana takes the mound tonight looking for his eighth straight outing of pitching at least seven innings. In the month of June, Santana is 2-0 with a 0.94 ERA, allowing only three runs in 28 2/3 innings with opponents hitting only .165 against him in that stretch.
Santana has faced the Braves twice as a members of the Angels, with the most recent coming in May 2011 when he tossed a complete-game shutout while allowing only four hits.
Despite his gaudy 2.64 ERA, which is third among American League starters, Santana's record sits at 5-5 due to spotty run support from the Royals offense.
Side note:
Braves are 5-3 all-time against the Royals, including sweeping them back in 2010.
Atlanta is also the last team in the National League to play in Kauffman Stadium.
Royals claimed right-handed reliever Maikel Cleto off waivers on Sunday from the Cardinals and has been assigned to Triple-A Omaha.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Game 75 Preview: Atlanta Braves (43-31) at Milwaukee Brewers (29-42)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 5-3, 3.36 ERA
RHP Wily Peralta (MIL) 4-8, 6.08 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network):
Braves (career vs. Peralta):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-2)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-3, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-1, BB, K)
Justin Upton - LF (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (1-2)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (1-2)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Julio Teheran - P (N/A)
Brewers (2013 season stats):
Norichika Aoki - RF (.292/.365/.386 4 HR 14 RBI)
Jean Segura - SS (.330/.365/.518 10 HR 30 RBI)
Carlos Gomez - CF (.318/.357/.583 12 HR 37 RBI)
Aramis Ramirez - 3B (.266/.354/.424 4 HR 19 RBI)
Juan Francisco - 1B (.219/.280/.370 6 HR 21 RBI)
Logan Schafer - LF (.240/.282/.327 0 HR 7 RBI)
Martin Maldonado - C (.175/.248/.320 3 HR 14 RBI)
Scooter Gennett - 2B (.222/.263/.389 1 HR 5 RBI)
Wily Peralta - P (.208/.240/.208 0 HR 0 RBI)
Preview:
The first game of a three-game set begins tonight in Milwaukee, as the Braves, coming off a 4-4 home stand, take on the struggling Brewers, who just finished a nine-game, 11-day road trip with a 4-5 record.
Oddly enough, his home ballpark hasn't been a place of comfort for tonight's Brewers starting pitcher, Wily Peralta. Braves offense will try to maintain that status quo tonight. Julio Teheran will oppose Peralta tonight in the battle of young right-handers.
Peralta has not won since June 1 and has taken the loss in two of his last three starts. In his last outing on Sunday against the Reds, he surrendered five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked two, and struck out two in just 5 1/3 innings in the loss.
Peralta fell to 4-8 on the season with a 6.08 ERA, which is the second-highest among all Major League pitchers with enough innings to qualify.
Meanwhile, Julio Teheran has been rolling as of late, including tossing six scoreless innings last Sunday night against the Giants, working his way out of two bases-loaded jams. After struggling in the early part of the season, Teheran has allowed two runs or fewer in seven of his last ten starts.
Braves hitting them when it counts:
The NL East division-leading Braves are 29-5 this season when scoring first. Atlanta is also 29-6 when they outhit their opponents, while the club is 5-23 when they're outhit and 9-2 when the hits are equal.
Braves sign 1st round pick Jason Hursh:
The Braves signed first-round pick Jason Hursh for $1.7 million on Wednesday. The hard throwing right-hander, who played college ball at Oklahoma State, was the 31st overall selection in this month's MLB Draft.
John Axford back on track:
Brewers reliever John Axford has not allowed a run in his last 18 appearances, spanning 16 1/3 innings. During that stretch, opponents are hitting 11-for-58 (.189) against Axford, who struggles had dated back to the beginning of the 2012 season.
Side note:
Carlos Gomez and Jean Segura come into play tonight as two of just seven players in the Majors with at least ten home runs and ten stolen bases this season.
Wily Peralta is 2-5 with a 7.34 ERA in eight home starts this season. Brewers as a team are just 16-20 at Miller Park (4-7-1 in series play).
Braves closer Craig Kimbrel is the first pitcher in Braves franchise history to record 20 saves in each of his first three Major League seasons. Gene Garber is the only Brave to ever record four 20-save seasons.
Peralta has seen the Braves before in his career, a September 10, 2012 start at Miller Park in which he allowed just one run on seven hits in six innings.
Friday marks the first meeting between the Braves and Brewers this season. The Brewers have not won a season series against the Braves since 2008.
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 5-3, 3.36 ERA
RHP Wily Peralta (MIL) 4-8, 6.08 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network):
Braves (career vs. Peralta):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-2)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-3, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-1, BB, K)
Justin Upton - LF (N/A)
Brian McCann - C (1-2)
BJ Upton - CF (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (1-2)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Julio Teheran - P (N/A)
Brewers (2013 season stats):
Norichika Aoki - RF (.292/.365/.386 4 HR 14 RBI)
Jean Segura - SS (.330/.365/.518 10 HR 30 RBI)
Carlos Gomez - CF (.318/.357/.583 12 HR 37 RBI)
Aramis Ramirez - 3B (.266/.354/.424 4 HR 19 RBI)
Juan Francisco - 1B (.219/.280/.370 6 HR 21 RBI)
Logan Schafer - LF (.240/.282/.327 0 HR 7 RBI)
Martin Maldonado - C (.175/.248/.320 3 HR 14 RBI)
Scooter Gennett - 2B (.222/.263/.389 1 HR 5 RBI)
Wily Peralta - P (.208/.240/.208 0 HR 0 RBI)
Preview:
The first game of a three-game set begins tonight in Milwaukee, as the Braves, coming off a 4-4 home stand, take on the struggling Brewers, who just finished a nine-game, 11-day road trip with a 4-5 record.
Oddly enough, his home ballpark hasn't been a place of comfort for tonight's Brewers starting pitcher, Wily Peralta. Braves offense will try to maintain that status quo tonight. Julio Teheran will oppose Peralta tonight in the battle of young right-handers.
Peralta has not won since June 1 and has taken the loss in two of his last three starts. In his last outing on Sunday against the Reds, he surrendered five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked two, and struck out two in just 5 1/3 innings in the loss.
Peralta fell to 4-8 on the season with a 6.08 ERA, which is the second-highest among all Major League pitchers with enough innings to qualify.
Meanwhile, Julio Teheran has been rolling as of late, including tossing six scoreless innings last Sunday night against the Giants, working his way out of two bases-loaded jams. After struggling in the early part of the season, Teheran has allowed two runs or fewer in seven of his last ten starts.
Braves hitting them when it counts:
The NL East division-leading Braves are 29-5 this season when scoring first. Atlanta is also 29-6 when they outhit their opponents, while the club is 5-23 when they're outhit and 9-2 when the hits are equal.
Braves sign 1st round pick Jason Hursh:
The Braves signed first-round pick Jason Hursh for $1.7 million on Wednesday. The hard throwing right-hander, who played college ball at Oklahoma State, was the 31st overall selection in this month's MLB Draft.
John Axford back on track:
Brewers reliever John Axford has not allowed a run in his last 18 appearances, spanning 16 1/3 innings. During that stretch, opponents are hitting 11-for-58 (.189) against Axford, who struggles had dated back to the beginning of the 2012 season.
Side note:
Carlos Gomez and Jean Segura come into play tonight as two of just seven players in the Majors with at least ten home runs and ten stolen bases this season.
Wily Peralta is 2-5 with a 7.34 ERA in eight home starts this season. Brewers as a team are just 16-20 at Miller Park (4-7-1 in series play).
Braves closer Craig Kimbrel is the first pitcher in Braves franchise history to record 20 saves in each of his first three Major League seasons. Gene Garber is the only Brave to ever record four 20-save seasons.
Peralta has seen the Braves before in his career, a September 10, 2012 start at Miller Park in which he allowed just one run on seven hits in six innings.
Friday marks the first meeting between the Braves and Brewers this season. The Brewers have not won a season series against the Braves since 2008.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Game 74 Preview: New York Mets (27-41) at Atlanta Braves (43-30)
Pitching Probables:
LHP Jon Niese (NYM) 3-6, 4.15 ERA
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-2, 2.68 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Minor):
Eric Young Jr. - LF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (2-12, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 3 K)
David Wright - 3B (2-17, 2 2B, RBI, 3 BB, 7 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (4-13, 2B, RBI, 2 K)
Lucas Duda - 1B (5-14, 2B, HR, RBI, 3 K)
John Buck - C (1-11, HR, 2 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K)
Juan Lagares - CF (0-3, K)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Jon Niese - P (1-4, 3 K)
Braves (career vs. Niese):
Tyler Pastornicky - 2B (0-1)
Jason Heyward - RF (8-20, 2 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 2 BB, 5 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (7-22, 2 2B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 3 K)
Justin Upton - LF (6-13, 2B, RBI, 2 BB, K)
BJ Upton - CF (1-2, BB, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (2-8, 2B, RBI, BB)
Gerald Laird - C (1-3, RBI, K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (2-6, 2B)
Mike Minor - P (0-3, 2 K)
Preview:
In two starts against the Mets this season, Braves LHP Mike Minor has been dominant. He's allowed only three runs in 14 1/3 innings, all coming courtesy of the home run ball. Minor looks to stop that trend of long balls as he takes the mound tonight in the rubber match of the five-game series between the Braves and Mets at Turner Field. In his last start against the Giants last Saturday, Minor allowed five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked one, and struck out seven in the no-decision.
Meanwhile, Jon Niese gets the start for the Mets, looking for his first win since May 16. Niese (3-6, 4.15 ERA) struggled early on in his last start against Cubs, allowing a two-run single to Scott Feldman, the opposing pitcher. Niese was able to settle down and finished strong, going 5 2/3 innings. The lefty did not have his best stuff, but he still had an effective outing, allowing the two runs on six hits in the loss. Niese has one other start this season against the Braves. In that start he was lit up, allowing seven runs on seven hits, walked six, and struck out three in the May 5 loss.
Scott Atchison back to the DL, Andrew Brown called up:
Mets placed reliever Scott Atchison back on the disabled list on Wednesday and recalled OF Andrew Brown from Triple-A Las Vegas. Atchison suffered a strained right groin while warming up during game two of Tuesday's doubleheader. Atchison was activated from the DL on Monday after a month-long stint due to right elbow inflammation.
The move allowed the Mets to balance out their roster, moving their bench back to five players and temporarily going with an eight-man bullpen.
Alex Wood hopes to be available in 'pen this weekend:
After a three inning, 73-pitch effort in game one of Tuesday's doubleheader, Alex Wood hopes to be available in the bullpen this weekend against the Brewers.
Wood was forced to make a spot start when Brandon Beachy was scratched due to inflammation in his right elbow. Wood had not thrown more than 35 pitches in any of his six appearances since being called up to the Majors.
Side note:
Jon Niese is 6-4 with a 3.64 ERA in 13 career appearances against the Braves.
Zack Wheeler went back to Triple-A Las Vegas, but will join the Mets next week in Chicago. The move allows for the Mets to carry an extra reliever for the final game of the series in Atlanta and this weekend in Philadelphia.
Braves INF Ramiro Pena has seen his playing time minimized since he landed awkwardly on his right shoulder during the June 9 win in Los Angeles. The switch-hitting Pena, who was normally inserted into the lineup when the Braves were playing against a tough right-hander, has started just two of the team's past ten games.
In eight career starts against the Mets, Mike Minor is 4-1, but posts an inflated ERA of 4.73.
LHP Jon Niese (NYM) 3-6, 4.15 ERA
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-2, 2.68 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Minor):
Eric Young Jr. - LF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (2-12, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 3 K)
David Wright - 3B (2-17, 2 2B, RBI, 3 BB, 7 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (4-13, 2B, RBI, 2 K)
Lucas Duda - 1B (5-14, 2B, HR, RBI, 3 K)
John Buck - C (1-11, HR, 2 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K)
Juan Lagares - CF (0-3, K)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Jon Niese - P (1-4, 3 K)
Braves (career vs. Niese):
Tyler Pastornicky - 2B (0-1)
Jason Heyward - RF (8-20, 2 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 2 BB, 5 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (7-22, 2 2B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 3 K)
Justin Upton - LF (6-13, 2B, RBI, 2 BB, K)
BJ Upton - CF (1-2, BB, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (2-8, 2B, RBI, BB)
Gerald Laird - C (1-3, RBI, K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (2-6, 2B)
Mike Minor - P (0-3, 2 K)
Preview:
In two starts against the Mets this season, Braves LHP Mike Minor has been dominant. He's allowed only three runs in 14 1/3 innings, all coming courtesy of the home run ball. Minor looks to stop that trend of long balls as he takes the mound tonight in the rubber match of the five-game series between the Braves and Mets at Turner Field. In his last start against the Giants last Saturday, Minor allowed five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked one, and struck out seven in the no-decision.
Meanwhile, Jon Niese gets the start for the Mets, looking for his first win since May 16. Niese (3-6, 4.15 ERA) struggled early on in his last start against Cubs, allowing a two-run single to Scott Feldman, the opposing pitcher. Niese was able to settle down and finished strong, going 5 2/3 innings. The lefty did not have his best stuff, but he still had an effective outing, allowing the two runs on six hits in the loss. Niese has one other start this season against the Braves. In that start he was lit up, allowing seven runs on seven hits, walked six, and struck out three in the May 5 loss.
Scott Atchison back to the DL, Andrew Brown called up:
Mets placed reliever Scott Atchison back on the disabled list on Wednesday and recalled OF Andrew Brown from Triple-A Las Vegas. Atchison suffered a strained right groin while warming up during game two of Tuesday's doubleheader. Atchison was activated from the DL on Monday after a month-long stint due to right elbow inflammation.
The move allowed the Mets to balance out their roster, moving their bench back to five players and temporarily going with an eight-man bullpen.
Alex Wood hopes to be available in 'pen this weekend:
After a three inning, 73-pitch effort in game one of Tuesday's doubleheader, Alex Wood hopes to be available in the bullpen this weekend against the Brewers.
Wood was forced to make a spot start when Brandon Beachy was scratched due to inflammation in his right elbow. Wood had not thrown more than 35 pitches in any of his six appearances since being called up to the Majors.
Side note:
Jon Niese is 6-4 with a 3.64 ERA in 13 career appearances against the Braves.
Zack Wheeler went back to Triple-A Las Vegas, but will join the Mets next week in Chicago. The move allows for the Mets to carry an extra reliever for the final game of the series in Atlanta and this weekend in Philadelphia.
Braves INF Ramiro Pena has seen his playing time minimized since he landed awkwardly on his right shoulder during the June 9 win in Los Angeles. The switch-hitting Pena, who was normally inserted into the lineup when the Braves were playing against a tough right-hander, has started just two of the team's past ten games.
In eight career starts against the Mets, Mike Minor is 4-1, but posts an inflated ERA of 4.73.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Game 73 Preview: New York Mets (27-40) at Atlanta Braves (42-30)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Shaun Marcum (NYM) 0-8, 5.43 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 3-7, 3.09 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineup (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Medlen):
Eric Young - CF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (4-16, 2 2B, RBI, 2 K)
David Wright - 3B (4-19, 2 BB, 7 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (1-4, RBI, 2 K)
Lucas Duda - 1B (2-10, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
John Buck - C (1-5, HR, RBI, BB)
Kirk Nieuwenhuis - LF (0-2, K)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Shaun Marcum - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Marcum):
Jordan Schafer - RF (3-9, 2B, RBI, 4 BB, 4 K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (3-6, 2B, RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-10, 5 K)
Justin Upton - LF (3-13, RBI, BB, 5 K)
Brian McCann - C (2-7, 2 BB)
BJ Upton - CF (8-26, 3 2B, 2 RBI, 3 BB, 9 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-12, HR, 2 RBI, BB, 3 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-12, 5 K)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)
Preview:
One day after sweeping the Braves in a day-night doubleheader, Mets will send out veteran righty Shaun Marcum for the fourth game of this five-game series. If there's anyone desperate for a win, it's Marcum. He struggled in his last start against the Cubs, allowing six runs on seven hits in 5 2/3 innings and remains winless in 2013.
Marcum's ERA continues to rise and his spot in the rotation is becoming more precarious. Mets are currently operating a six-man rotation and somebody will eventually be sent down to the bullpen. Mets have yet to announce when this move will take place.
Braves starter Kris Medlen takes the mound for the NL East division leaders, hoping for better results. In his last start against the Giants, Medlen was victimized by a flurry of two-strike hits in a losing effort. In the end, Medlen was charged for four runs on nine hits in six innings pitched.
Medlen racked up a season-high nine strikeouts in his only other appearance against the Mets this season. In that start, he allowed three runs on seven hits and walked a batter in a solid six inning effort.
Mets officially put Justin Turner on DL, Travis D'Arnaud injury update:
Mets placed IF Justin Turner on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday with a strained left intercoastal muscle. Mets are hopeful that Turner will only spend 15 days on the DL.
Prospect Travis D'Arnaud, who has been rehabbing a broken bone in his left foot, has been cleared to begin a running program to get him back into baseball shape.
NL All-Star voting update (Braves, via MLB.com):
C - Brian McCann (5th)
1B - Freddie Freeman (5th)
SS - Andrelton Simmons - (5th)
3B - Chris Johnson (4th)
OF - Justin Upton (2nd)
Side note:
Marlon Byrd is beginning to heat up in the month of June. He has five home runs to go with nine RBIs. Byrd also hit five homers in the month of May and has seven in his last 18 games.
Braves are 28-6 when scoring first this season.
Braves are also the last team in the Majors this season to have used only five starting pitchers.
Shaun Marcum is 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA in five career starts against the Braves.
In 16 appearances (six starts) in his career against the Mets, Medlen is 3-0 with a microscopic ERA of 1.92.
RHP Shaun Marcum (NYM) 0-8, 5.43 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 3-7, 3.09 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineup (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Medlen):
Eric Young - CF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (4-16, 2 2B, RBI, 2 K)
David Wright - 3B (4-19, 2 BB, 7 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (1-4, RBI, 2 K)
Lucas Duda - 1B (2-10, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
John Buck - C (1-5, HR, RBI, BB)
Kirk Nieuwenhuis - LF (0-2, K)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Shaun Marcum - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Marcum):
Jordan Schafer - RF (3-9, 2B, RBI, 4 BB, 4 K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (3-6, 2B, RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-10, 5 K)
Justin Upton - LF (3-13, RBI, BB, 5 K)
Brian McCann - C (2-7, 2 BB)
BJ Upton - CF (8-26, 3 2B, 2 RBI, 3 BB, 9 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (2-12, HR, 2 RBI, BB, 3 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-12, 5 K)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)
Preview:
One day after sweeping the Braves in a day-night doubleheader, Mets will send out veteran righty Shaun Marcum for the fourth game of this five-game series. If there's anyone desperate for a win, it's Marcum. He struggled in his last start against the Cubs, allowing six runs on seven hits in 5 2/3 innings and remains winless in 2013.
Marcum's ERA continues to rise and his spot in the rotation is becoming more precarious. Mets are currently operating a six-man rotation and somebody will eventually be sent down to the bullpen. Mets have yet to announce when this move will take place.
Braves starter Kris Medlen takes the mound for the NL East division leaders, hoping for better results. In his last start against the Giants, Medlen was victimized by a flurry of two-strike hits in a losing effort. In the end, Medlen was charged for four runs on nine hits in six innings pitched.
Medlen racked up a season-high nine strikeouts in his only other appearance against the Mets this season. In that start, he allowed three runs on seven hits and walked a batter in a solid six inning effort.
Mets officially put Justin Turner on DL, Travis D'Arnaud injury update:
Mets placed IF Justin Turner on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday with a strained left intercoastal muscle. Mets are hopeful that Turner will only spend 15 days on the DL.
Prospect Travis D'Arnaud, who has been rehabbing a broken bone in his left foot, has been cleared to begin a running program to get him back into baseball shape.
NL All-Star voting update (Braves, via MLB.com):
C - Brian McCann (5th)
1B - Freddie Freeman (5th)
SS - Andrelton Simmons - (5th)
3B - Chris Johnson (4th)
OF - Justin Upton (2nd)
Side note:
Marlon Byrd is beginning to heat up in the month of June. He has five home runs to go with nine RBIs. Byrd also hit five homers in the month of May and has seven in his last 18 games.
Braves are 28-6 when scoring first this season.
Braves are also the last team in the Majors this season to have used only five starting pitchers.
Shaun Marcum is 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA in five career starts against the Braves.
In 16 appearances (six starts) in his career against the Mets, Medlen is 3-0 with a microscopic ERA of 1.92.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Game 72 Preview: New York Mets (26-40) at Atlanta Braves (42-29)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Zack Wheeler (NYM) Major League debut
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 7-5, 3.65 ERA
Doubleheader Game 2 Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Maholm):
Collin Cowgill - LF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (7-12, 3 RBI, K)
David Wright - 3B (8-29, 2B, 2 RBI, 5 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (3-20, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Josh Satin - 1B (N/A)
Anthony Recker - C (N/A)
Juan Lagares - CF (N/A)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Zack Wheeler - P (N/A)
Braves (2013 season stats):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (.242/.276/.337 5 HR 22 RBI)
Jason Heyward - RF (.220/.325/.357 5 HR 13 RBI)
Justin Upton - LF (.246/.355/.472 15 HR 32 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (.323/.381/.482 7 HR 48 RBI)
BJ Upton - CF (.164/.260/.309 8 HR 16 RBI)
Brian McCann - C (.250/.347/.471 7 HR 17 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (.192/.321/.397 13 HR 27 RBI)
Chris Johnson - 3B (.317/.354/.450 3 HR 17 RBI)
Paul Maholm - P (.161/.161/.194 0 HR 1 RBI)
Preview:
After taking game one of a day-night doubleheader, the Mets will send out their top pitching prospect, Zack Wheeler, to make his anticipated Major League debut.
Wheeler, the sixth overall pick in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft by the Giants, was traded to the Mets in the deal that sent Carlos Beltran from New York to San Francisco at the non-waiver trade deadline in 2011. Wheeler struck out 73 batters in 68 2/3 innings with Triple-A Las Vegas in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League this season, going 4-2 with a 3.93 ERA.
Fitting the young right-hander makes his debut against the Braves at Turner Field. Wheeler is from Dallas, Georgia, which is about 45 minutes from Atlanta. He's expecting a large contingent of supporters tonight.
Opposing Zack Wheeler will be veteran Braves lefty, Paul Maholm. Through 14 starts this season, Maholm is 7-5 with a respectable ERA of 3.65. In his last start against Padres in San Diego, Maholm struggled mightily, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked three, and struck out four over 5 2/3 innings in the 7-5 loss.
Justin Turner injury, Scott Atchison set to be activated:
Mets IF Justin Turner has not progressed from a left intercostal strain and could be placed on the disabled list. Turner had an MRI yesterday in New York before joining the club in Atlanta.
Mets need roster spots to make room for Zack Wheeler and reliever Scott Atchison, and placing Turner on the disabled list would open up a spot. The club is allowed to carry 26 players for previously rescheduled doubleheaders per MLB rules. Leaving New York to make one more move following the nightcap of tonight's doubleheader.
Prior to the injury, Turner was in a 8-for-50 slump, dropping his average from .378 to .266 during that stretch. He was used primarily as a first basemen, but has made spot starts at all four infield positions.
Scott Atchison, on the DL since May 14 with right elbow inflammation, rehabbed in Double-A Binghamton over the weekend and will be activated from the disabled list today.
Brandon Beachy suffers minor setback:
Braves RHP Brandon Beachy had a minor setback following his final rehab start for Triple-A Gwinnett. An MRI revealed elbow inflammation, but showed no structural damage. Beachy was originally slated to start game 1 of today's doubleheader. Braves do not have a timetable for him to take the mound. In his final rehab start Beachy walked three and needed 69 pitches to complete three innings last Thursday night.
Side note:
Paul Maholm is 6-3 in his career against the Mets, posting an ERA of 3.58 in 13 career appearances (12 starts).
Justin Upton, Brian McCann, and BJ Upton were all out of the starting lineup in game one of the doubleheader. All three will be in the lineup for tonight's nightcap.
RHP Zack Wheeler (NYM) Major League debut
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 7-5, 3.65 ERA
Doubleheader Game 2 Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (career vs. Maholm):
Collin Cowgill - LF (N/A)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (7-12, 3 RBI, K)
David Wright - 3B (8-29, 2B, 2 RBI, 5 K)
Marlon Byrd - RF (3-20, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Josh Satin - 1B (N/A)
Anthony Recker - C (N/A)
Juan Lagares - CF (N/A)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (N/A)
Zack Wheeler - P (N/A)
Braves (2013 season stats):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (.242/.276/.337 5 HR 22 RBI)
Jason Heyward - RF (.220/.325/.357 5 HR 13 RBI)
Justin Upton - LF (.246/.355/.472 15 HR 32 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (.323/.381/.482 7 HR 48 RBI)
BJ Upton - CF (.164/.260/.309 8 HR 16 RBI)
Brian McCann - C (.250/.347/.471 7 HR 17 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (.192/.321/.397 13 HR 27 RBI)
Chris Johnson - 3B (.317/.354/.450 3 HR 17 RBI)
Paul Maholm - P (.161/.161/.194 0 HR 1 RBI)
Preview:
After taking game one of a day-night doubleheader, the Mets will send out their top pitching prospect, Zack Wheeler, to make his anticipated Major League debut.
Wheeler, the sixth overall pick in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft by the Giants, was traded to the Mets in the deal that sent Carlos Beltran from New York to San Francisco at the non-waiver trade deadline in 2011. Wheeler struck out 73 batters in 68 2/3 innings with Triple-A Las Vegas in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League this season, going 4-2 with a 3.93 ERA.
Fitting the young right-hander makes his debut against the Braves at Turner Field. Wheeler is from Dallas, Georgia, which is about 45 minutes from Atlanta. He's expecting a large contingent of supporters tonight.
Opposing Zack Wheeler will be veteran Braves lefty, Paul Maholm. Through 14 starts this season, Maholm is 7-5 with a respectable ERA of 3.65. In his last start against Padres in San Diego, Maholm struggled mightily, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits, walked three, and struck out four over 5 2/3 innings in the 7-5 loss.
Justin Turner injury, Scott Atchison set to be activated:
Mets IF Justin Turner has not progressed from a left intercostal strain and could be placed on the disabled list. Turner had an MRI yesterday in New York before joining the club in Atlanta.
Mets need roster spots to make room for Zack Wheeler and reliever Scott Atchison, and placing Turner on the disabled list would open up a spot. The club is allowed to carry 26 players for previously rescheduled doubleheaders per MLB rules. Leaving New York to make one more move following the nightcap of tonight's doubleheader.
Prior to the injury, Turner was in a 8-for-50 slump, dropping his average from .378 to .266 during that stretch. He was used primarily as a first basemen, but has made spot starts at all four infield positions.
Scott Atchison, on the DL since May 14 with right elbow inflammation, rehabbed in Double-A Binghamton over the weekend and will be activated from the disabled list today.
Brandon Beachy suffers minor setback:
Braves RHP Brandon Beachy had a minor setback following his final rehab start for Triple-A Gwinnett. An MRI revealed elbow inflammation, but showed no structural damage. Beachy was originally slated to start game 1 of today's doubleheader. Braves do not have a timetable for him to take the mound. In his final rehab start Beachy walked three and needed 69 pitches to complete three innings last Thursday night.
Side note:
Paul Maholm is 6-3 in his career against the Mets, posting an ERA of 3.58 in 13 career appearances (12 starts).
Justin Upton, Brian McCann, and BJ Upton were all out of the starting lineup in game one of the doubleheader. All three will be in the lineup for tonight's nightcap.
Game 71 Preview: New York Mets (25-40) at Atlanta Braves (42-28)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Matt Harvey (NYM) 5-1, 2.04 ERA
LHP Alex Wood (ATL) 0-0, 3.52 ERA
Doubleheader Game 1 Starting Lineups (1:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (2013 season stats):
Collin Cowgill - LF (.173/.189/.327 2 HR 8 RBI)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (.278/.320/.421 5 HR 31 RBI)
David Wright - 3B (.300/.390/.492 9 HR 36 RBI)
Marlon Byrd - RF (.247/.303/.494 11 HR 32 RBI)
Lucas Duda - 1B (.241/.348/.454 11 HR 23 RBI)
John Buck - C (.224/.282/.407 11 HR 35 RBI)
Juan Lagares - CF (.192/.213/.295 1 HR 3 RBI)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (.228/.290/.404 2 HR 4 RBI)
Matt Harvey - P (.138/.138/.172 0 HR 1 RBI)
Braves (career vs. Harvey):
Jordan Schafer - CF (N/A)
Reed Johnson - LF (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (1-3, HR, 2 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-3)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Gerald Laird - C (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-1, 2 BB, K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Alex Wood - P (N/A)
Preview:
After the dramatic 2-1 win by the Braves over the Mets this morning, the two teams are right back at it this afternoon for game 1 of a day-night doubleheader at Turner Field. In the first game, Mets ace Matt Harvey takes the hill opposed by Braves LHP Alex Wood, who makes his first career MLB start.
Matt Harvey has been brilliant up to this point in the season, logging 11 quality starts in 14 starts this season. In his previous start against the Cardinals, the 24-year-old ace allowed just one run on five hits, walked one, and struck out in seven innings pitched as he took his first loss of the season, snapping a franchise-record of 13 consecutive starts without a loss to begin the season due in part to the Mets recent struggles at the plate.
While being overshadowed by Wheeler's debut in game 2 of the double dip, Braves lefty Alex Wood makes his first Major League start. He's made six appearances out of the bullpen since being called up on May 30. Wood dominated while starting at Double-A Mississppi, going 4-2 with a 1.26 ERA, striking out 57 batters and walking 15 in 57 innings pitched spanning 10 starts.
Evan Gattis heads to 15-day disabled list, Pastornicky called up:
Braves C/OF Evan Gattis was placed on the 15-day DL this morning due to a right oblique strain suffered in last night's game against the Mets. Gattis injured his oblique on a check swing in the 7th inning. El Oso Blanco is hitting .252 this season while leading all rookies in home runs (14) and runs driven in (37) and is absolutely incredible in pinch-hit situations, going 6-for-8 with four homers and 11 runs driven in.
Tyler Pastornicky was called up to take Gattis' roster spot. In 57 games down in Triple-A Gwinnett, Pastornicky is tearing up opposing pitchers, hitting .309/.351/.429 with four homers and 25 RBIs. Pastornicky was previously called up after Jason Heyward went on the disabled list after undergoing an emergency appendectomy and has just one hit in nine plate appearances in six games played in the Majors this season.
Freddie Freeman stays hot:
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman continued to scorch the ball with three more hits last night, falling a triple short of the cycle. Freeman hit second career walk-off home run off Dillon Gee to give the Braves a 2-1 win. His previous walk-off homer came last September against the Marlins, which clinched a playoff berth for the Braves. Freeman leads the team in RBI (47) and is tied for seventh in the NL despite missing 13 games with a right oblique strain earlier in the season.
Side note:
Matt Harvey has one other career start against the Braves that came in August of 2012. In that start, Harvey allowed two runs on two hits, walked five, and struck out three as he took the 4-0 loss.
Braves called up reliever Cory Rasmus from Triple-A Gwinnett to fill the team's 26th roster spot for today's doubleheader.
RHP Matt Harvey (NYM) 5-1, 2.04 ERA
LHP Alex Wood (ATL) 0-0, 3.52 ERA
Doubleheader Game 1 Starting Lineups (1:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Mets (2013 season stats):
Collin Cowgill - LF (.173/.189/.327 2 HR 8 RBI)
Daniel Murphy - 2B (.278/.320/.421 5 HR 31 RBI)
David Wright - 3B (.300/.390/.492 9 HR 36 RBI)
Marlon Byrd - RF (.247/.303/.494 11 HR 32 RBI)
Lucas Duda - 1B (.241/.348/.454 11 HR 23 RBI)
John Buck - C (.224/.282/.407 11 HR 35 RBI)
Juan Lagares - CF (.192/.213/.295 1 HR 3 RBI)
Omar Quintanilla - SS (.228/.290/.404 2 HR 4 RBI)
Matt Harvey - P (.138/.138/.172 0 HR 1 RBI)
Braves (career vs. Harvey):
Jordan Schafer - CF (N/A)
Reed Johnson - LF (N/A)
Jason Heyward - RF (1-3, HR, 2 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-3)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Gerald Laird - C (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-1, 2 BB, K)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Alex Wood - P (N/A)
Preview:
After the dramatic 2-1 win by the Braves over the Mets this morning, the two teams are right back at it this afternoon for game 1 of a day-night doubleheader at Turner Field. In the first game, Mets ace Matt Harvey takes the hill opposed by Braves LHP Alex Wood, who makes his first career MLB start.
Matt Harvey has been brilliant up to this point in the season, logging 11 quality starts in 14 starts this season. In his previous start against the Cardinals, the 24-year-old ace allowed just one run on five hits, walked one, and struck out in seven innings pitched as he took his first loss of the season, snapping a franchise-record of 13 consecutive starts without a loss to begin the season due in part to the Mets recent struggles at the plate.
While being overshadowed by Wheeler's debut in game 2 of the double dip, Braves lefty Alex Wood makes his first Major League start. He's made six appearances out of the bullpen since being called up on May 30. Wood dominated while starting at Double-A Mississppi, going 4-2 with a 1.26 ERA, striking out 57 batters and walking 15 in 57 innings pitched spanning 10 starts.
Evan Gattis heads to 15-day disabled list, Pastornicky called up:
Braves C/OF Evan Gattis was placed on the 15-day DL this morning due to a right oblique strain suffered in last night's game against the Mets. Gattis injured his oblique on a check swing in the 7th inning. El Oso Blanco is hitting .252 this season while leading all rookies in home runs (14) and runs driven in (37) and is absolutely incredible in pinch-hit situations, going 6-for-8 with four homers and 11 runs driven in.
Tyler Pastornicky was called up to take Gattis' roster spot. In 57 games down in Triple-A Gwinnett, Pastornicky is tearing up opposing pitchers, hitting .309/.351/.429 with four homers and 25 RBIs. Pastornicky was previously called up after Jason Heyward went on the disabled list after undergoing an emergency appendectomy and has just one hit in nine plate appearances in six games played in the Majors this season.
Freddie Freeman stays hot:
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman continued to scorch the ball with three more hits last night, falling a triple short of the cycle. Freeman hit second career walk-off home run off Dillon Gee to give the Braves a 2-1 win. His previous walk-off homer came last September against the Marlins, which clinched a playoff berth for the Braves. Freeman leads the team in RBI (47) and is tied for seventh in the NL despite missing 13 games with a right oblique strain earlier in the season.
Side note:
Matt Harvey has one other career start against the Braves that came in August of 2012. In that start, Harvey allowed two runs on two hits, walked five, and struck out three as he took the 4-0 loss.
Braves called up reliever Cory Rasmus from Triple-A Gwinnett to fill the team's 26th roster spot for today's doubleheader.
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