Braves Report

After getting swept by the Marlins, the Braves hoped to turn it around and beat up on the Pirates. Unfortunately, that wasn’t meant to be. There were two problems that the Braves mainly faced last year, which, once again, manifested themselves tonight. What were they? The bullpen and the…offense? Ah, yes, the offense. I’m beginning to think that this is starting to become a problem. So, let’s get on with this.

Jurrjens started this game and on any other day wouldn’t have been credited with the loss. He pithced really well: 6 and 2/3rds innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. If one thing has certainly changed from last year it’s the number of strikeouts the starting staff has been getting. Moylan relieved him after Jair had thrown 120 pitches, and subsequently ended the inning. Gonzalez came in to pitch the 8th in a non-save situation against his former team and would give up a 2-run homer in the process. Overall, not too bad of a night for the pitching staff.

The offense, however, just couldn’t get it done. They managed 6 hits, which is as many as the Pirates did, but, unlike the Pirates, could never execute when they needed to. This includes not plating anyone with the bases loaded and nobody out in the 2nd inning (hello 2008!).

Once again, Francoeur led the hitting barrage with 3 hits, raising his average to an impressive .350. I guess his new stance is really taking effect, maybe he should teach it to the rest of the team? The other hits in the game were earned by people who don’t usually play: Infante, Prado, and Jurrjens. Again, just not that spectacular of a night for the offense.

Braves fall, 3 – 0.

Next game: Saturday @ Pirates.

12:35 PM EST. Reyes vs. Snell. C’mon, Jo-Jo, end this losing streak.