Pitching Probables:
RHP Tim Hudson (ATL) 6-7, 4.02 ERA
LHP John Danks (CHW) 2-6, 4.31 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (8:10 pm ET/FS South):
Braves (career vs. Danks):
Jose Constanza - LF (N/A)
Reed Johnson - CF (1-6, 2 K)
Justin Upton - RF (0-2, RBI)
Brian McCann - C (0-3, K)
Evan Gattis - DH (N/A)
Dan Uggla - 2B (1-3, 2B, RBI, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (N/A)
Joey Terdoslavich - 1B (N/A)
White Sox (career vs. Hudson):
Alejandro De Aza - CF (N/A)
Alexei Ramirez - SS (0-1, 2 BB)
Alex Rios - RF (3-16, RBI, 3 K)
Adam Dunn - DH (11-31, 2B, 4 HR, 7 RBI, BB, 5 K)
Jeff Keppinger - 1B (9-17, 2B, 2 K)
Conor Gillaspie - 3B (N/A)
Dayan Viciedo - LF (N/A)
Gordon Beckham - 2B (0-3, K)
Josh Phegley - C (N/A)
Preview:
The first half of the season for the Braves and White Sox went in dramatically different directions. Chicago finished with the second-worst record in the American League, while Atlanta had the third-best record in the National League. These diverging clubs with get together for a three-game weekend series at U.S. Cellular Field tonight.
A major part of the White Sox's struggles stems from the ability to generate much offense. The club has only outscored one team in the MLB, the Marlins, which is the direct opposite from this time last season, when the White Sox were among the top 10 in the league in runs scored.
The All-Star break also did wonders for the Braves, but for a completely different reason. Atlanta limped into the break with minor ailments to Justin Upton, Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, and BJ Upton was put on the 15-day disabled list with a strained adductor muscle.
Attempting to continue the Braves' first-half momentum will be Tim Hudson, who opposes White Sox starter John Danks on the mound tonight. Hudson struggled during the month of May, but has since found his form over the past month and a half. Over his last eight starts, Hudson has allowed more than three runs once, and has posted seven quality starts during that eight-start span. In his last start against the Reds, he kept the Cincinnati lineup in check, allowing three runs while scattering eight hits, and struck out five over seven innings in the 6-5 win last Thursday night.
Jake Peavy will be activated from DL, to start Saturday vs. Braves:
White Sox SP Jake Peavy will be activated from the disabled list in time for Saturday's game against the Braves. Peavy is recovering from a left rib fracture suffered in the June 4 start against the Mariners. Peavy completed his final rehab start for Double-A Birmingham on Sunday, and threw 90 pitches, 57 of which were strikes in five innings. Peavy, who is on the trading block, could showcase his talents with the possibility of being traded to a contender before the July 31 trade deadline.
BJ to disabled list, Gattis and J. Upton make respective returns, Freeman, Heyward remain out:
Braves C/OF Evan Gattis returned to the Braves in the team's first-hlaf finale against the Reds, but BJ Upton took his place on the disabled list.
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman sat out of Tuesday's All-Star with a sore thumb suffered in last Saturday's game against the Reds when he jammed the thumb while tagging Chris Heisey in the 1st inning. Freeman could be back in the lineup this weekend against the White Sox.
Jason Heyward, who strained his hamstring sliding into third base in last Thursday's game against the Reds, is not in the lineup tonight, but will return as well at some point this weekend.
Side note:
Braves' 54 wins are tied for the seventh-most wins in franchise history before the All-Star break. The record is held by the 2003 team, which won 61 games before the break.
White Sox have not won consecutive series since May 20-22 against the Red Sox and May 24-26 against the Marlins.
White Sox reliever Jesse Crain did not pitch in Tuesday's All-Star Game due to a sprained right shoulder.
Tim Hudson's career ERA against the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field is 10.45, which is the highest against any team in an opposing ballpark in his career.
Friday, July 19, 2013
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Game 94 Preview: Cincinnati Reds (52-41) at Atlanta Braves (53-40)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Homer Bailey (CIN) 5-7, 3.70 ERA
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-4, 3.05 ERA
Today's Starting Lineups (4:05 pm ET, FS South):
Reds (career vs. Minor):
Chris Heisey - LF (N/A)
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (0-3, K)
Joey Votto - 1B (0-4, 2 BB, 2 K)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (1-6, 2B, 2 K)
Jay Bruce - RF (0-4, 2 BB, K)
Todd Frazier - 3B (0-5, BB, 4 K)
Zack Cozart - SS (3-7, 2 HR, 2 RBI)
Corky Miller - C (N/A)
Homer Bailey - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Bailey):
Jose Constanza - LF (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-3, 2B, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-8, RBI, BB)
Brian McCann - C (1-7, 2 RBI, 2 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (3-15, RBI, 3 BB, 2 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (0-9, 5 K)
Reed Johnson - CF (0-3, BB)
Joey Terdoslavich - RF (N/A)
Mike Minor - P (N/A)
Preview:
The road has not been kind to the Reds as of late, as Friday's win over the Braves was just their fourth in the last 13 games away from Great American Ball Park. Reds are 2-3 on their current seven-game road trip and are 22-25 away from home this season.
Reds SP Homer Bailey, who takes the mound this afternoon, has struggled on the road as well. Bailey has surrendered four runs in six innings or less in each of his last two road starts and is just 2-6 with a 4.61 ERA in eight road starts in 2013. Bailey entered his last start coming off his second no-hitter of his career, but struggled to bring the momentum with him against the Brewers, where he failed to make it out of the sixth inning after allowing four runs on 10 hits and walked three batters. All four of the runs he allowed came with two outs.
Mike Minor, who starts for the Braves today, has had trouble getting going at home this season. In nine starts this season at Turner Field, the lefty is 2-3 with a 3.61 ERA. Minor has allowed four earned runs in each of his last three home starts and has taken the loss in two of those outings. The long ball has been a major issue again for Minor this season as he has given up 14 of them this season, nine of which have come at Turner Field. He looks to reverse his trend as he faces a powerful Reds lineup.
Injury bug bites outfield:
Braves RF Jason Heyward likely won't need a DL trip for his strained right hamstring, but will sit out the final two games before the All-Star break. Heyward injured his hamstring running from first to third in Thursday night's game against the Reds, but felt much better yesterday. For the season, Heyward is hitting .227 with seven homers and 21 RBIs in 67 games.
Braves will be without the services of BJ and Justin Upton for the remainder of the series as well after the brothers left last night's game with injuries.
BJ Upton sustained a right adductor muscle strain when he sprinted in and dove to try to catch a line drive off the bat of Todd Frazier. His knee struck the ground, twisting the rest of his body awkwardly. Justin Upton's injury came in the seventh inning, when he exited with a left calf strain after trying to leg out a single off Bronson Arroyo. A DL trip for either brother are unlikely at this point.
Shin-Soo Choo streaking:
With a 2-for-5 performance in last night's game, Reds CF Shin-Soo Choo extended his season-high hit streak to 10 games. Choo has gone 17-for-42 (.405) during that stretch with four doubles and three RBIs. In the five games on the Reds road trip, Choo has gone 9-for-22 (.409) with six runs scored.
Side note:
Homer Bailey is 2-0 with a 3.42 ERA in four career starts against the Braves, including a no-decision on May 7, when he allowed four runs on five hits and four walks in five innings.
Mike Minor has seen the Reds twice prior to today's start, most recently limiting their offense to a single run on four hits in seven innings on May 8.
Reds have not won back-to-back road games since beating the Cubs in three straight games June 10-12.
RHP Homer Bailey (CIN) 5-7, 3.70 ERA
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-4, 3.05 ERA
Today's Starting Lineups (4:05 pm ET, FS South):
Reds (career vs. Minor):
Chris Heisey - LF (N/A)
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (0-3, K)
Joey Votto - 1B (0-4, 2 BB, 2 K)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (1-6, 2B, 2 K)
Jay Bruce - RF (0-4, 2 BB, K)
Todd Frazier - 3B (0-5, BB, 4 K)
Zack Cozart - SS (3-7, 2 HR, 2 RBI)
Corky Miller - C (N/A)
Homer Bailey - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Bailey):
Jose Constanza - LF (N/A)
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-3, 2B, K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-8, RBI, BB)
Brian McCann - C (1-7, 2 RBI, 2 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (3-15, RBI, 3 BB, 2 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (0-9, 5 K)
Reed Johnson - CF (0-3, BB)
Joey Terdoslavich - RF (N/A)
Mike Minor - P (N/A)
Preview:
The road has not been kind to the Reds as of late, as Friday's win over the Braves was just their fourth in the last 13 games away from Great American Ball Park. Reds are 2-3 on their current seven-game road trip and are 22-25 away from home this season.
Reds SP Homer Bailey, who takes the mound this afternoon, has struggled on the road as well. Bailey has surrendered four runs in six innings or less in each of his last two road starts and is just 2-6 with a 4.61 ERA in eight road starts in 2013. Bailey entered his last start coming off his second no-hitter of his career, but struggled to bring the momentum with him against the Brewers, where he failed to make it out of the sixth inning after allowing four runs on 10 hits and walked three batters. All four of the runs he allowed came with two outs.
Mike Minor, who starts for the Braves today, has had trouble getting going at home this season. In nine starts this season at Turner Field, the lefty is 2-3 with a 3.61 ERA. Minor has allowed four earned runs in each of his last three home starts and has taken the loss in two of those outings. The long ball has been a major issue again for Minor this season as he has given up 14 of them this season, nine of which have come at Turner Field. He looks to reverse his trend as he faces a powerful Reds lineup.
Injury bug bites outfield:
Braves RF Jason Heyward likely won't need a DL trip for his strained right hamstring, but will sit out the final two games before the All-Star break. Heyward injured his hamstring running from first to third in Thursday night's game against the Reds, but felt much better yesterday. For the season, Heyward is hitting .227 with seven homers and 21 RBIs in 67 games.
Braves will be without the services of BJ and Justin Upton for the remainder of the series as well after the brothers left last night's game with injuries.
BJ Upton sustained a right adductor muscle strain when he sprinted in and dove to try to catch a line drive off the bat of Todd Frazier. His knee struck the ground, twisting the rest of his body awkwardly. Justin Upton's injury came in the seventh inning, when he exited with a left calf strain after trying to leg out a single off Bronson Arroyo. A DL trip for either brother are unlikely at this point.
Shin-Soo Choo streaking:
With a 2-for-5 performance in last night's game, Reds CF Shin-Soo Choo extended his season-high hit streak to 10 games. Choo has gone 17-for-42 (.405) during that stretch with four doubles and three RBIs. In the five games on the Reds road trip, Choo has gone 9-for-22 (.409) with six runs scored.
Side note:
Homer Bailey is 2-0 with a 3.42 ERA in four career starts against the Braves, including a no-decision on May 7, when he allowed four runs on five hits and four walks in five innings.
Mike Minor has seen the Reds twice prior to today's start, most recently limiting their offense to a single run on four hits in seven innings on May 8.
Reds have not won back-to-back road games since beating the Cubs in three straight games June 10-12.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Game 93 Preview: Cincinnati Reds (51-41) at Atlanta Braves (53-39)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Bronson Arroyo (CIN) 7-7, 3.55 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 6-8, 3.45 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:35 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network):
Reds (career vs. Medlen):
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (1-3, HR, RBI, K)
Derrick Robinson - LF (N/A)
Joey Votto - 1B (3-6, 2 2B, RBI)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (1-6, K)
Jay Bruce - RF (0-6, 4 K)
Todd Frazier - 3B (0-2, K)
Zack Cozart - SS (1-5, K)
Devin Mesoraco - C (1-2, HR, 4 RBI)
Bronson Arroyo - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Arroyo):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (2-2, HR, 2 RBI)
Reed Johnson - RF (3-16, 3 RBI, 3 K)
Justin Upton - LF (8-29, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 9 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (5-10, 2 2B, HR, 2 RBI, BB)
Brian McCann - C (9-20, 4 HR, 7 RBI, 6 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (7-21, 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (4-12, 3 2B, 2 BB, K)
BJ Upton - CF (0-7, 5 K)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)
Preview:
The last time Braves starter Kris Medlen faced the Reds on May 7, he turned in one of his best outings of the season, allowing two runs on four hits in seven solid innings, but he did so in what turned out to be a heartbreaking loss for the Braves. Tonight at Turner Field, he'll look to duplicate his brilliant outing and also get his record a game closer to .500 on the season.
In that May start against the Reds, Medlen was in line for the win when he left the ballgame, but the bullpen gave up three runs, including back-to-back homers from Devin Mesoraco and Shin-Soo Choo off Braves closer Craig Kimbrel to end the game. In the first four innings of his start, Medlen gave up a single hit, a homer, and said afterwards that it was the best he's felt all season to that point.
But in his last start against the Phillies last Sunday, Medlen allowed a career-high seven runs (six earned). Six of those seven runs came with two outs, with the other coming on a Domonic Brown home run.
Reds starter Bronson Arroyo also pitched in the May series against the Braves. Arroyo allowed four runs on eight hits in five innings, Arroyo's second-shortest outing of the season. In his last start against the Mariners, Arroyo allowed three runs on five hits, walked one, and struck out six in six innings in the 3-1 loss.
Jason Heyward injury:
Braves RF Jason Heyward left last night's game in the second inning after straining his right hamstring sliding into third base. Heyward walked off the field under his own power and was re-evaluated today. Braves will rest Heyward for the remainder of the weekend series against the Reds and during the All-Star break.
Freeman wins NL Final Vote:
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman received a standing ovation before his first at-bat last night as he won the Final Vote for the last spot on the NL's All-Star roster. As part of a record-setting turnout, Freddie Freeman received more votes (19.7 million) than any other player ever has in the process. He beat out heavy favorite Yasiel Puig of the Dodgers. Freeman thanked the fans by going 3-for-4 with 4 RBIs last night.
Reds' Ryan Hanigan to the DL:
Reds catchers Devin Mesoraco and Ryan Hanigan have been banged up as of late. The only way Hanigan's strained left wrist will get any better is to give it rest which led to the Reds' decision of putting him on the disabled list before Thursday's game against the Braves. In a corresponding move, Reds called up veteran catcher Corky Miller from Triple-A Louisville. In six games this season, Miller is hitting a mere .125.
Side note:
Braves 3B Chris Johnson extended his season-best hitting streak to 12 games with a 1-for-4 effort on Thursday. During the streak, Johnson is hitting .396 (19-for-48) with six multi-hit games.
Reds set franchise record on Thursday night when the bullpen notched its 10th straight game without surrendering a run. Logan Ondrusek and Alfredo Simon pitched two scoreless frames in the series opener against the Braves, making it 28 2/3 innings without a run off a reliever.
Brian McCann, the NL's reigning Co-Player of the Week alongside Reds SP Homer Bailey, enters Friday with a .450 batting average (9-for-20), four homers, and seven RBIs against Bronson Arroyo.
Reds CF Shin-Soo Choo is 7-for-17 (.412) on the current road trip and carries a nine-game hitting streak into tonight's game against the Braves.
Braves are the best home team in baseball to this point in the season, going 30-13 (.698) at Turner Field.
RHP Bronson Arroyo (CIN) 7-7, 3.55 ERA
RHP Kris Medlen (ATL) 6-8, 3.45 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:35 pm ET, FS South/MLB Network):
Reds (career vs. Medlen):
Shin-Soo Choo - CF (1-3, HR, RBI, K)
Derrick Robinson - LF (N/A)
Joey Votto - 1B (3-6, 2 2B, RBI)
Brandon Phillips - 2B (1-6, K)
Jay Bruce - RF (0-6, 4 K)
Todd Frazier - 3B (0-2, K)
Zack Cozart - SS (1-5, K)
Devin Mesoraco - C (1-2, HR, 4 RBI)
Bronson Arroyo - P (N/A)
Braves (career vs. Arroyo):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (2-2, HR, 2 RBI)
Reed Johnson - RF (3-16, 3 RBI, 3 K)
Justin Upton - LF (8-29, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 9 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (5-10, 2 2B, HR, 2 RBI, BB)
Brian McCann - C (9-20, 4 HR, 7 RBI, 6 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (7-21, 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 6 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (4-12, 3 2B, 2 BB, K)
BJ Upton - CF (0-7, 5 K)
Kris Medlen - P (N/A)
Preview:
The last time Braves starter Kris Medlen faced the Reds on May 7, he turned in one of his best outings of the season, allowing two runs on four hits in seven solid innings, but he did so in what turned out to be a heartbreaking loss for the Braves. Tonight at Turner Field, he'll look to duplicate his brilliant outing and also get his record a game closer to .500 on the season.
In that May start against the Reds, Medlen was in line for the win when he left the ballgame, but the bullpen gave up three runs, including back-to-back homers from Devin Mesoraco and Shin-Soo Choo off Braves closer Craig Kimbrel to end the game. In the first four innings of his start, Medlen gave up a single hit, a homer, and said afterwards that it was the best he's felt all season to that point.
But in his last start against the Phillies last Sunday, Medlen allowed a career-high seven runs (six earned). Six of those seven runs came with two outs, with the other coming on a Domonic Brown home run.
Reds starter Bronson Arroyo also pitched in the May series against the Braves. Arroyo allowed four runs on eight hits in five innings, Arroyo's second-shortest outing of the season. In his last start against the Mariners, Arroyo allowed three runs on five hits, walked one, and struck out six in six innings in the 3-1 loss.
Jason Heyward injury:
Braves RF Jason Heyward left last night's game in the second inning after straining his right hamstring sliding into third base. Heyward walked off the field under his own power and was re-evaluated today. Braves will rest Heyward for the remainder of the weekend series against the Reds and during the All-Star break.
Freeman wins NL Final Vote:
Braves 1B Freddie Freeman received a standing ovation before his first at-bat last night as he won the Final Vote for the last spot on the NL's All-Star roster. As part of a record-setting turnout, Freddie Freeman received more votes (19.7 million) than any other player ever has in the process. He beat out heavy favorite Yasiel Puig of the Dodgers. Freeman thanked the fans by going 3-for-4 with 4 RBIs last night.
Reds' Ryan Hanigan to the DL:
Reds catchers Devin Mesoraco and Ryan Hanigan have been banged up as of late. The only way Hanigan's strained left wrist will get any better is to give it rest which led to the Reds' decision of putting him on the disabled list before Thursday's game against the Braves. In a corresponding move, Reds called up veteran catcher Corky Miller from Triple-A Louisville. In six games this season, Miller is hitting a mere .125.
Side note:
Braves 3B Chris Johnson extended his season-best hitting streak to 12 games with a 1-for-4 effort on Thursday. During the streak, Johnson is hitting .396 (19-for-48) with six multi-hit games.
Reds set franchise record on Thursday night when the bullpen notched its 10th straight game without surrendering a run. Logan Ondrusek and Alfredo Simon pitched two scoreless frames in the series opener against the Braves, making it 28 2/3 innings without a run off a reliever.
Brian McCann, the NL's reigning Co-Player of the Week alongside Reds SP Homer Bailey, enters Friday with a .450 batting average (9-for-20), four homers, and seven RBIs against Bronson Arroyo.
Reds CF Shin-Soo Choo is 7-for-17 (.412) on the current road trip and carries a nine-game hitting streak into tonight's game against the Braves.
Braves are the best home team in baseball to this point in the season, going 30-13 (.698) at Turner Field.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Game 89 Preview: Atlanta Braves (50-38) at Miami Marlins (32-55)
Pitching Probables:
LHP Mike Minor (ATL) 8-4, 3.15 ERA
RHP Kevin Slowey (MIA) 3-6, 4.24 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Braves (career vs. Slowey):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-4, 3B, RBI)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-6, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-6, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Justin Upton - LF (4-4, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, BB)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-2)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (0-2)
Brian McCann - C (2-7, 2B, 2 RBI, BB, 2 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (0-5, RBI, K)
BJ Upton - CF (2-6, HR, RBI, K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (3-4)
Mike Minor - P (N/A)
Marlins (career vs. Minor):
Justin Ruggiano - LF (4-10, 2 2B, HR, 3 RBI, 2 BB, K)
Ed Lucas - 3B (1-3, K)
Ed Lucas - 3B (1-3, K)
Giancarlo Stanton - RF (2-11, 2 HR, 2 RBI, 4 BB, 4 K)
Marcell Ozuna - CF (0-3, K)
Marcell Ozuna - CF (0-3, K)
Logan Morrison - 1B (3-10, 2B, 3B, HR, 3 RBI, 3 K)
Adeiny Hechavarria - SS (1-5, 2B, RBI, 2 K)
Derek Dietrich - 2B (N/A)
Derek Dietrich - 2B (N/A)
Jeff Mathis - C (0-2, BB, 2 K)
Kevin Slowey - P (N/A)
Kevin Slowey - P (N/A)
Preview:
After trading Ricky Nolasco to the Dodgers on Saturday, the Marlins will give former Twins SP Kevin Slowey another chance in the rotation.
Slowey, who was moved to the bullpen in June, will pitch for Miami in its series opener against Atlanta Monday night at Marlins Park. He'll have some tough competition as Mike Minor toes the rubber for the Braves, opposing Slowey. In just 13 starts this season, Slowey is 1-6 with a 4.50 ERA. June 12, the last time Slowey made a start, he struggled mightily against the Brewers, allowing six runs (five earned) on nine hits and struck out six over five innings in the 10-1 loss. Before trading Nolasco, Marlins manager Mike Redmond wasn't sure if Nolasco would be dealt so he made sure Slowey was rested enough to replace Nolasco in the rotation. In four relief appearances, Slowey went 2-0 with a 2.77 ERA. Slowey faces a tough Braves lineup tonight. While they lost two of three to the Phillies this weekend, the club did pound out 13 runs on 19 hits in Saturday's runaway victory. Slowey did pitch against the Braves last week in Atlanta, giving up four runs on five hits, walked two, and struck out two in two innings out of the bullpen.
Mike Minor takes the mound for the Braves in the series opener tonight in Miami, having lost in his last start, to these same Marlins, in which he allowed four runs on six hits, walked three, and struck out nine over six innings in the 6-3 loss last Wednesday. Minor has not won a game since June 9, when he beat the Dodgers in Los Angeles. He looks to reverse his recent trend tonight as the Braves begin an important series with the Marlins with the Nationals bearing down on them in the division.
Marlins recall Hatcher, Hechavarria on fire:
Miami recalled right-hander Chris Hatcher from Triple-A New Orleans to take Nolasco's roster spot. While in Triple-A, Hatcher converted 24 of 25 save opportunities which earned him a spot on the Pacific Coast League All-Star team.
Shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria carries a season-high seven-game hitting streak into tonight's game. In that stretch, Hechavarria is hitting .423.
Brian McCann, Chris Johnson scorching:
Braves C Brian McCann's double in the fifth inning Saturday night was a big part of the 13-4 outburst on the Phillies. He followed his hot hitting with a 3-for-4 performance on Sunday. In his last 11 games, McCann is hitting a red-hot .512.
Third basemen Chris Johnson also continued his hot hitting with a solo home run in Sunday's 7-3 loss to the Phillies. In his last 12 games, Johnson is hitting .409 with two homers and eight RBIs.
Side note:
Mike Minor has given up at least four earned runs in three of his last four starts, including his last outing against the Marlins. He did that only once in his first 13 starts to begin the season.
Miami and Atlanta has played two series, six games, this season, with the Braves sweeping the Marlins in the first series back in April and the Marlins winning two of three last week.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Game 87 Preview: Atlanta Braves (49-37) at Philadelphia Phillies (42-45)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-7, 4.22 ERA
RHP Kyle Kendrick (PHI) 7-5, 3.59 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:15 pm ET, FOX):
Braves (career vs. Kendrick):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-3, K)
Jason Heyward - RF (3-19, 2 BB, 5 K)
Justin Upton - LF (4-9, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-10, 3 BB, 2 K)
Brian McCann - C (8-31, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 4 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (11-35, 4 2B, HR, 5 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
BJ Upton - CF (1-2)
Chris Johnson - 3B (2-7, RBI, K)
Tim Hudson - P (1-7, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K)
Phillies (career vs. Hudson):
Michael Young - 3B (9-29, 2B, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 4 K)
Chase Utley - 2B (15-65, 3 2B, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 5 BB, 10 K)
Jimmy Rollins - SS (18-81, 4 2B, 3 3B, 3 HR, 7 RBI, 5 BB, 6 K)
Ryan Howard - 1B (22-67, 3 2B, 7 HR, 17 RBI, 12 BB, 11 K)
Domonic Brown - LF (2-7, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Delmon Young - RF (1-1, RBI)
Ben Revere - CF (1-2, BB)
Carlos Ruiz - C (8-36, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 4 BB, 4 K)
Kyle Kendrick - P (2-7, 2 K)
Preview:
Phillies starter Kyle Kendrick looks to continue his dominance over the Braves on Saturday night in a critical series that'll determine if they will be buyers or sellers as the July 31st trade deadline approaches. Kendrick has not lost a start against the Braves since July 25, 2008, with a 7-1 career mark and a 2.86 ERA in 19 career appearances, including 13 starts. In Kendrick's last start against the Dodgers, he was knocked around for four runs on 10 hits, walked a batter, and struck out two in six innings which resulted in a 6-1 loss. Kendrick also sustained a concussion in that game when Dodgers pitcher Stephen Fife hit him in the head with a pitch, but was cleared to make tonight's start.
Opposing Kendrick is veteran Tim Hudson, who has the chance to break his 10-start winless streak. Hudson had his start pushed back to Saturday due to lingering neck stiffness. Braves opted to swap Hudson for lefty Paul Maholm for Friday night's series opener, giving Hudson two extra days of rest and allowing Maholm to pitch on normal rest.
Hudson won his first road start of the season April 13 in Washington, but has since lost seven straight road decisions. Braves have struggled away from Turner Field as of late, going 4-8 over their last two road trips since June 6 to drop to a lousy three games under .500 heading into their current six-game trip which spans the cities of Philadelphia and Miami. However, they've been good enough at home to preserve the largest first place lead in baseball as of Friday night.
As a starter and reliever, Kyle Kendrick has dueled with Tim Hudson five previous times in his career. Braves hold a 2-1 advantage when both pitchers are the starters and have a 4-1 advantage overall.
Gearrin optioned to Gwinnett, Ayala called up:
After spending the better part of the last two months on the disabled list with an anxiety disorder, Braves reliever Luis Ayala rejoined the Major League club before the start of this weekend's series with the Phillies. It is believed that the anxiety disorder was sparked up when Ayala found out he had high blood pressure.
Ayala replaces struggling right-hander Cory Gearrin, who had compiled a 9.90 ERA and allowed opponents to produce a .509 on-base percentage in his last 11 appearances. In six appearances with Triple-A Gwinnett, Ayala had allowed six earned runs and five walks while striking out five batters. Before his DL trip, he had made five appearances with the Braves, surrendering two earned runs and three walks after being traded from Baltimore on April 9.
Side note:
Friday's game against the Phillies began a stretch of 26 out of 41 games against NL East opponents for the Braves.
Braves C Gerald Laird and manager Fredi Gonzalez were ejected by home plate umpire Angel Hernandez last night for arguing balls and strikes in the 3rd inning after Laird "struck out" on a pitch high and above the letters. Laird was making his first start behind the plate since June 26 and did not have a single plate appearance on the recent home stand.
Dan Uggla's 27 home runs against the Phillies since 2006 are the most of any player over that span. Uggla went 2-for-4 in last night's game, including a towering three-run homer that got the Braves back into the game in the seventh inning.
Phillies RHP Cliff Lee extended his unbeaten streak to 12 starts Friday in the Phillies' 5-4 win, pitching six scoreless innings before giving up four runs in the seventh.
RHP Tim Hudson (ATL) 4-7, 4.22 ERA
RHP Kyle Kendrick (PHI) 7-5, 3.59 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:15 pm ET, FOX):
Braves (career vs. Kendrick):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (0-3, K)
Jason Heyward - RF (3-19, 2 BB, 5 K)
Justin Upton - LF (4-9, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (2-10, 3 BB, 2 K)
Brian McCann - C (8-31, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 4 BB, K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (11-35, 4 2B, HR, 5 RBI, 2 BB, 3 K)
BJ Upton - CF (1-2)
Chris Johnson - 3B (2-7, RBI, K)
Tim Hudson - P (1-7, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K)
Phillies (career vs. Hudson):
Michael Young - 3B (9-29, 2B, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 4 K)
Chase Utley - 2B (15-65, 3 2B, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 5 BB, 10 K)
Jimmy Rollins - SS (18-81, 4 2B, 3 3B, 3 HR, 7 RBI, 5 BB, 6 K)
Ryan Howard - 1B (22-67, 3 2B, 7 HR, 17 RBI, 12 BB, 11 K)
Domonic Brown - LF (2-7, 2B, RBI, BB, K)
Delmon Young - RF (1-1, RBI)
Ben Revere - CF (1-2, BB)
Carlos Ruiz - C (8-36, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 4 BB, 4 K)
Kyle Kendrick - P (2-7, 2 K)
Preview:
Phillies starter Kyle Kendrick looks to continue his dominance over the Braves on Saturday night in a critical series that'll determine if they will be buyers or sellers as the July 31st trade deadline approaches. Kendrick has not lost a start against the Braves since July 25, 2008, with a 7-1 career mark and a 2.86 ERA in 19 career appearances, including 13 starts. In Kendrick's last start against the Dodgers, he was knocked around for four runs on 10 hits, walked a batter, and struck out two in six innings which resulted in a 6-1 loss. Kendrick also sustained a concussion in that game when Dodgers pitcher Stephen Fife hit him in the head with a pitch, but was cleared to make tonight's start.
Opposing Kendrick is veteran Tim Hudson, who has the chance to break his 10-start winless streak. Hudson had his start pushed back to Saturday due to lingering neck stiffness. Braves opted to swap Hudson for lefty Paul Maholm for Friday night's series opener, giving Hudson two extra days of rest and allowing Maholm to pitch on normal rest.
Hudson won his first road start of the season April 13 in Washington, but has since lost seven straight road decisions. Braves have struggled away from Turner Field as of late, going 4-8 over their last two road trips since June 6 to drop to a lousy three games under .500 heading into their current six-game trip which spans the cities of Philadelphia and Miami. However, they've been good enough at home to preserve the largest first place lead in baseball as of Friday night.
As a starter and reliever, Kyle Kendrick has dueled with Tim Hudson five previous times in his career. Braves hold a 2-1 advantage when both pitchers are the starters and have a 4-1 advantage overall.
Gearrin optioned to Gwinnett, Ayala called up:
After spending the better part of the last two months on the disabled list with an anxiety disorder, Braves reliever Luis Ayala rejoined the Major League club before the start of this weekend's series with the Phillies. It is believed that the anxiety disorder was sparked up when Ayala found out he had high blood pressure.
Ayala replaces struggling right-hander Cory Gearrin, who had compiled a 9.90 ERA and allowed opponents to produce a .509 on-base percentage in his last 11 appearances. In six appearances with Triple-A Gwinnett, Ayala had allowed six earned runs and five walks while striking out five batters. Before his DL trip, he had made five appearances with the Braves, surrendering two earned runs and three walks after being traded from Baltimore on April 9.
Side note:
Friday's game against the Phillies began a stretch of 26 out of 41 games against NL East opponents for the Braves.
Braves C Gerald Laird and manager Fredi Gonzalez were ejected by home plate umpire Angel Hernandez last night for arguing balls and strikes in the 3rd inning after Laird "struck out" on a pitch high and above the letters. Laird was making his first start behind the plate since June 26 and did not have a single plate appearance on the recent home stand.
Dan Uggla's 27 home runs against the Phillies since 2006 are the most of any player over that span. Uggla went 2-for-4 in last night's game, including a towering three-run homer that got the Braves back into the game in the seventh inning.
Phillies RHP Cliff Lee extended his unbeaten streak to 12 starts Friday in the Phillies' 5-4 win, pitching six scoreless innings before giving up four runs in the seventh.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Game 86 Preview: Atlanta Braves (49-36) at Philadelphia Phillies (41-45)
Pitching Probables:
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 9-6, 3.69 ERA
LHP Cliff Lee (PHI) 9-2, 2.59 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:05 pm ET, FS South):
Braves (career vs. Lee):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-6, K)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-14, 3B, BB, 2 K)
Justin Upton - LF (4-11, 2B, BB, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (6-22, BB, 8 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-11, HR, 2 RBI, 3 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (5-25, 2 2B, HR, 3 RBI, BB, 11 K)
BJ Upton - CF (8-34, 3 2B, RBI, BB, 13 K)
Gerald Laird - C (2-19, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 8 K)
Paul Maholm - P (N/A)
Phillies (career vs. Maholm):
Michael Young - 3B (3-5, HR, 2 RBI)
Chase Utley - 2B (6-21, 3 2B, HR, RBI, 5 K)
Jimmy Rollins - SS (7-25, 2 2B, 3 BB, 2 K)
Ryan Howard - 1B (5-23, 2B, 6 RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Domonic Brown - LF (2-3)
Delmon Young - RF (4-6, 2B, RBI, K)
Ben Revere - CF (0-3)
Humberto Quintero - C (6-17, RBI, K)
Cliff Lee - P (N/A)
Preview:
Tim Hudson will have to wait another day to snap his 10-start winless streak. Originally scheduled to start Friday's series opener opposite Cliff Lee, Hudson has been bumped back to Saturday while lefty Paul Maholm moves up to get the start. Maholm, who was originally set to oppose Kyle Kendrick on Saturday night, picked up his ninth win of the season after allowing just two runs on eight hits, walk two batters, and struck out three in 6 2/3 innings against the Diamondbacks. The lefty has gone 5-2 with a 4.66 ERA in 10 career starts against the Phillies, including tossing 5 2/3 scoreless innings on April 3.
As for Phillies starter Cliff Lee, the southpaw has been dominant all season long, including throwing a two-hitter against the Braves on April 4. He has turned in 11 consecutive quality starts dating back to May 6, while pitching at least seven innings in each of those starts. During that span, Lee is 7-0 with a 2.16 ERA which improved his season totals to 9-2 with a 2.49 ERA.
Terdoslavich's MLB debut:
Braves prospect Joey Terdoslavich, who's Atlanta's 14th-ranked prospect according to MLB.com, was called for the first time after Jordan Schafer was put on the 15-day disabled list with right ankle contusion. In his first Major League at-bat in last night's 4-3 loss to the Marlins, Terdoslavich struck out on a 2-2 count while pinch-hitting for Jordan Walden in the 8th inning.
Ben Revere finally finding his stride as a Phillie:
After a slow start to the season, Phillies CF Ben Revere has settled into a groove at the plate over the last couple of months. Since May 1, Revere is batting .333 (63-for-189) over 57 games as well as 15 stolen bases and 23 runs scored. Revere hit just .200 in April with five stolen bases and only one extra-base hit.
Side note:
Brandon Beachy traveled with the Braves to Philadelphia this weekend, setting the earliest time for him to begin his rehab assignment back to late next week. Beachy will throw at least one more bullpen session before going out on rehab.
Braves took two of three in the opening series of the season at Turner Field. Cliff Lee received the only win of the series after pitching eight spectacular innings of shutout ball while only allowing two hits and striking out eight.
LHP Paul Maholm (ATL) 9-6, 3.69 ERA
LHP Cliff Lee (PHI) 9-2, 2.59 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:05 pm ET, FS South):
Braves (career vs. Lee):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (1-6, K)
Jason Heyward - RF (2-14, 3B, BB, 2 K)
Justin Upton - LF (4-11, 2B, BB, 3 K)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (6-22, BB, 8 K)
Chris Johnson - 3B (1-11, HR, 2 RBI, 3 K)
Dan Uggla - 2B (5-25, 2 2B, HR, 3 RBI, BB, 11 K)
BJ Upton - CF (8-34, 3 2B, RBI, BB, 13 K)
Gerald Laird - C (2-19, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 8 K)
Paul Maholm - P (N/A)
Phillies (career vs. Maholm):
Michael Young - 3B (3-5, HR, 2 RBI)
Chase Utley - 2B (6-21, 3 2B, HR, RBI, 5 K)
Jimmy Rollins - SS (7-25, 2 2B, 3 BB, 2 K)
Ryan Howard - 1B (5-23, 2B, 6 RBI, 2 BB, 7 K)
Domonic Brown - LF (2-3)
Delmon Young - RF (4-6, 2B, RBI, K)
Ben Revere - CF (0-3)
Humberto Quintero - C (6-17, RBI, K)
Cliff Lee - P (N/A)
Preview:
Tim Hudson will have to wait another day to snap his 10-start winless streak. Originally scheduled to start Friday's series opener opposite Cliff Lee, Hudson has been bumped back to Saturday while lefty Paul Maholm moves up to get the start. Maholm, who was originally set to oppose Kyle Kendrick on Saturday night, picked up his ninth win of the season after allowing just two runs on eight hits, walk two batters, and struck out three in 6 2/3 innings against the Diamondbacks. The lefty has gone 5-2 with a 4.66 ERA in 10 career starts against the Phillies, including tossing 5 2/3 scoreless innings on April 3.
As for Phillies starter Cliff Lee, the southpaw has been dominant all season long, including throwing a two-hitter against the Braves on April 4. He has turned in 11 consecutive quality starts dating back to May 6, while pitching at least seven innings in each of those starts. During that span, Lee is 7-0 with a 2.16 ERA which improved his season totals to 9-2 with a 2.49 ERA.
Terdoslavich's MLB debut:
Braves prospect Joey Terdoslavich, who's Atlanta's 14th-ranked prospect according to MLB.com, was called for the first time after Jordan Schafer was put on the 15-day disabled list with right ankle contusion. In his first Major League at-bat in last night's 4-3 loss to the Marlins, Terdoslavich struck out on a 2-2 count while pinch-hitting for Jordan Walden in the 8th inning.
Ben Revere finally finding his stride as a Phillie:
After a slow start to the season, Phillies CF Ben Revere has settled into a groove at the plate over the last couple of months. Since May 1, Revere is batting .333 (63-for-189) over 57 games as well as 15 stolen bases and 23 runs scored. Revere hit just .200 in April with five stolen bases and only one extra-base hit.
Side note:
Brandon Beachy traveled with the Braves to Philadelphia this weekend, setting the earliest time for him to begin his rehab assignment back to late next week. Beachy will throw at least one more bullpen session before going out on rehab.
Braves took two of three in the opening series of the season at Turner Field. Cliff Lee received the only win of the series after pitching eight spectacular innings of shutout ball while only allowing two hits and striking out eight.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Game 85 Preview: Miami Marlins (31-52) at Atlanta Braves (49-35)
Pitching Probables:
RHP Henderson Alvarez (MIA) 9-14, 4.85 ERA in '12
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 6-4, 3.12 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Marlins (2013 season stats):
Justin Ruggiano - LF (.233/.298/.432 12 HR 31 RBI)
Ed Lucas - 3B (.295/.368/.347 1 HR 6 RBI)
Giancarlo Stanton - RF (.258/.354/.465 8 HR 22 RBI)
Logan Morrison - 1B (.321/.387/.554 2 HR 7 RBI)
Marcell Ozuna - CF (.286/.317/.409 2 HR 27 RBI)
Derek Dietrich - 2B (.214/.279/.405 7 HR 19 RBI)
Adeiny Hechavarria - SS (.223/.263/.308 2 HR 21 RBI)
Jeff Mathis - C (.162/.237/.353 2 HR 16 RBI)
Henderson Alvarez - P (N/A)
Braves (2013 season stats):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (.245/.282/.340 6 HR 26 RBI)
Jason Heyward - RF (.227/.325/.364 6 HR 17 RBI)
Justin Upton - LF (.248/.358/.452 15 HR 38 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (.313/.386/.474 9 HR 54 RBI)
Brian McCann - C (.262/.357/.503 10 HR 27 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (.202/.324/.403 14 HR 33 RBI)
BJ Upton - CF (.177/.276/.315 8 HR 19 RBI)
Chris Johnson - 3B (.333/.379/.480 5 HR 26 RBI)
Julio Teheran - P (.194/.219/.226 0 HR 1 RBI)
Preview:
Marlins add another young pitcher to their starting rotation as Henderson Alvarez is set to make his 2013 debut tonight against the Braves. Alvarez joins a rotation that includes the likes of young pitchers such as Nathan Eovaldi, Jose Fernandez, and Jacob Turner. Alvarez, who was acquired from Toronto in the November blockbuster trade that sent Jose Reyes and Josh Johnson to the Blue Jays, will have the chance to show the Marlins what he can do after spending the entire season on the disabled list with right shoulder inflammation. Marlins manager Mike Redmond says Alvarez will be handled the same way he was in his rehab stints and put an 85-pitch limit on the righty.
Squaring off against Alvarez is Braves starter Julio Teheran, who is enjoying a solid rookie campaign in Atlanta's formidable starting rotation. Teheran is 6-4 with a 3.12 ERA in 15 starts this season. His 10 quality starts ranks second among MLB rookie pitchers behind Dodgers starter Hyun-Jin Ryu (13).
Teheran has recorded eight or more strikeouts in four of his past six starts, including double-digit strikeout performances against the Pirates on June 5 and the Diamondbacks last Friday night. Teheran ranks second among Braves starters with 7.65 strikeouts per nine innings and has fanned nearly 11 batters per nine innings in his last six starts. Marlins are a good candidate to put an end to Teheran's torrid strikeout rate, as only two National League teams have struck out fewer times than Miami.
Schafer to disabled list, Terdoslavich called up:
Braves placed OF Jordan Schafer on the 15-day disabled list with a bruised right ankle after fouling a ball off it last week in Kansas City. Fredi Gonzalez used him in pinch hit situations in the first two games of the series and it looks as if Schafer's ankle isn't getting any better. With that, Joey Terdoslavich was called up from Triple-A Gwinnett. Terdo has been tearing it up all season long in Gwinnett, hitting .318/.359/.567 with 18 home runs and 58 RBIs in 85 games played. Terdoslavich provides some power off the bench and in pinch hit situations with Gattis still disabled by a strained oblique. To accommodate Terdoslavich's spot on the 40-man roster, Braves transferred reliever Jonny Venters to the 60-day disabled list.
Side note:
Marlins 1B/OF Logan Morrison sat out Wednesday's game against the Braves after colliding with Kris Medlen at first base on Tuesday which left him shaken up. He is in the lineup tonight for the Marlins and will hit in the cleanup spot.
Chris Johnson finished Wednesday's game 2-for-4 with an RBI single in the ninth inning, improving his batting average to .355 since May 13 (44-for-124).
Marlins C Jeff Mathis made some history in last night's 6-3 win over the Braves. He became the second player in franchise history to drive in at least two runs in five consecutive games, tying Hanley Ramirez's record mark set back in 2009.
RHP Henderson Alvarez (MIA) 9-14, 4.85 ERA in '12
RHP Julio Teheran (ATL) 6-4, 3.12 ERA
Tonight's Starting Lineups (7:10 pm ET, SportSouth):
Marlins (2013 season stats):
Justin Ruggiano - LF (.233/.298/.432 12 HR 31 RBI)
Ed Lucas - 3B (.295/.368/.347 1 HR 6 RBI)
Giancarlo Stanton - RF (.258/.354/.465 8 HR 22 RBI)
Logan Morrison - 1B (.321/.387/.554 2 HR 7 RBI)
Marcell Ozuna - CF (.286/.317/.409 2 HR 27 RBI)
Derek Dietrich - 2B (.214/.279/.405 7 HR 19 RBI)
Adeiny Hechavarria - SS (.223/.263/.308 2 HR 21 RBI)
Jeff Mathis - C (.162/.237/.353 2 HR 16 RBI)
Henderson Alvarez - P (N/A)
Braves (2013 season stats):
Andrelton Simmons - SS (.245/.282/.340 6 HR 26 RBI)
Jason Heyward - RF (.227/.325/.364 6 HR 17 RBI)
Justin Upton - LF (.248/.358/.452 15 HR 38 RBI)
Freddie Freeman - 1B (.313/.386/.474 9 HR 54 RBI)
Brian McCann - C (.262/.357/.503 10 HR 27 RBI)
Dan Uggla - 2B (.202/.324/.403 14 HR 33 RBI)
BJ Upton - CF (.177/.276/.315 8 HR 19 RBI)
Chris Johnson - 3B (.333/.379/.480 5 HR 26 RBI)
Julio Teheran - P (.194/.219/.226 0 HR 1 RBI)
Preview:
Marlins add another young pitcher to their starting rotation as Henderson Alvarez is set to make his 2013 debut tonight against the Braves. Alvarez joins a rotation that includes the likes of young pitchers such as Nathan Eovaldi, Jose Fernandez, and Jacob Turner. Alvarez, who was acquired from Toronto in the November blockbuster trade that sent Jose Reyes and Josh Johnson to the Blue Jays, will have the chance to show the Marlins what he can do after spending the entire season on the disabled list with right shoulder inflammation. Marlins manager Mike Redmond says Alvarez will be handled the same way he was in his rehab stints and put an 85-pitch limit on the righty.
Squaring off against Alvarez is Braves starter Julio Teheran, who is enjoying a solid rookie campaign in Atlanta's formidable starting rotation. Teheran is 6-4 with a 3.12 ERA in 15 starts this season. His 10 quality starts ranks second among MLB rookie pitchers behind Dodgers starter Hyun-Jin Ryu (13).
Teheran has recorded eight or more strikeouts in four of his past six starts, including double-digit strikeout performances against the Pirates on June 5 and the Diamondbacks last Friday night. Teheran ranks second among Braves starters with 7.65 strikeouts per nine innings and has fanned nearly 11 batters per nine innings in his last six starts. Marlins are a good candidate to put an end to Teheran's torrid strikeout rate, as only two National League teams have struck out fewer times than Miami.
Schafer to disabled list, Terdoslavich called up:
Braves placed OF Jordan Schafer on the 15-day disabled list with a bruised right ankle after fouling a ball off it last week in Kansas City. Fredi Gonzalez used him in pinch hit situations in the first two games of the series and it looks as if Schafer's ankle isn't getting any better. With that, Joey Terdoslavich was called up from Triple-A Gwinnett. Terdo has been tearing it up all season long in Gwinnett, hitting .318/.359/.567 with 18 home runs and 58 RBIs in 85 games played. Terdoslavich provides some power off the bench and in pinch hit situations with Gattis still disabled by a strained oblique. To accommodate Terdoslavich's spot on the 40-man roster, Braves transferred reliever Jonny Venters to the 60-day disabled list.
Side note:
Marlins 1B/OF Logan Morrison sat out Wednesday's game against the Braves after colliding with Kris Medlen at first base on Tuesday which left him shaken up. He is in the lineup tonight for the Marlins and will hit in the cleanup spot.
Chris Johnson finished Wednesday's game 2-for-4 with an RBI single in the ninth inning, improving his batting average to .355 since May 13 (44-for-124).
Marlins C Jeff Mathis made some history in last night's 6-3 win over the Braves. He became the second player in franchise history to drive in at least two runs in five consecutive games, tying Hanley Ramirez's record mark set back in 2009.
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