Braves Report

There seems to be one constant in this universe. No, it’s not the sun, time, other stars, or even black holes. It’s the Braves losing one-run games on the road. I can’t even begin to fathom how they’ve lost this many in a row, not winning one since last season, but I think it’s getting past the point of coincidence and towards the reality of absurdity. A walk-off win from the Nationals just further confused me about this team, especially when they looked like they were going to make a run at a come-from-behind win. Instead, they lost their second game this season by walking in the winning run.

So, how did the Braves lose this game? Well, Reyes continued his rough stretch over his past 11 starts. He only lasted 4 innings, while giving up 8 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and striking out 2. My favorite bullpen pitcher, Buddy Carlyle, relieved him, and pitched an unimpressive inning: 3 runs, 3 hits, a walk, and 2 strikeouts. Bennett pitched 2 innings and gave up a run. Ohman gave up a hit and recorded an out, and Tavarez followed with an inning and 2/3rds while giving up a hit and a walk. He also recorded a strikeout, and although his line doesn’t reflect it, he really looked good out there. Nunez pitched the 10th, gave up 3 walks, recorded a strikeout, and ultimately walked in the winning run. Pitching was responsible for costing this team the game.

The offense provided some power that we rarely see nowadays. They pounded out 14 hits and pushed 8 runs across the plate. The most notable hit of the day came on a solo home run from Chipper in the 7th inning. It was his 20th shot of the season, which marks the 14th consecutive season beginning his rookie year that he’s hit at least 20 homers. What does this mean? Well, the only other player in Major League history to do this was Hall of Famer/former-Braves’ third baseman Eddie Matthews. Not bad company to be in at all. So, congratulations, Chipper. You’ve had one hell of a career, and it’s been a privilege to watch you play.

Chipper also doubled in a run, raising his average to .359. After that, McCann doubled him in, who was then doubled in by Infante. Lots of doubles. Prado, who went 3-for-5 on the night with 2 RBIs and a homer, singled in Infante. Let me say, I haven’t been the biggest Martin Prado fan, but he is hitting damn well right now. His batting average is up to .343, and he should be expecting some serious playing time with the way his bat has been. Other notables are McCann’s line drive home run in the 5th. Blanco also doubled in a run in the 8th. Anderson and KJ each had two hits. A good night for the offense, but the pitching just couldn’t support them.

Braves lose in extras, 9 – 8.

Tomorrow’s game, 1:35 PM, on Sports South.