The Atlanta Braves jumped out to an early 5-0 lead, and still held a 5-3 advantage in the bottom of the eighth with two outs. However, it wasn’t enough as the Los Angeles Dodgers mounted a comeback, winning 6-5 on a walk-off solo home run by Shohei Ohtani. The Braves now head back to Atlanta with a 0-7 record, the only winless team left in Major League Baseball. While their West Coast road trip nightmare is over, there’s still plenty of work to be done.
Despite scoring five runs on Wednesday, the offense still has room for improvement. Manager Brian Snitker emphasized that the team hasn’t played a complete game yet. The Braves had several opportunities, including bases loaded in the fifth and a runner on third in the seventh, but failed to capitalize. They went 5-for-15 with runners in scoring position, their best showing of the season, but what they missed out on stands out more right now.
The bullpen also faltered late in the game, with Daysbel Hernandez getting into trouble, and Raisel Iglesias unable to prevent the walk-off. Despite the loss, Iglesias received support from his teammates and manager. Austin Riley defended him, pointing out that Iglesias had only pitched once in the past six days, making it difficult to expect him to get five outs. Snitker explained that going with his closer beyond three outs was his best option.
Ultimately, the blame is shared across the team. Bryce Elder gave up three runs on two home runs in just four innings, and the Braves had to use six pitchers. Hernandez and Iglesias couldn’t escape trouble, which contributed to their inability to secure 27 outs.
The Braves’ only consolation is that their first two opponents, the Dodgers and Padres, are a combined 14-0, so they’re not the only team struggling against them. Last season, they were also swept by the Dodgers and lost three of four to the Padres. This isn’t new, and it’s happening right from the start of the season, which only adds to the frustration.
The Braves now shift focus to their first homestand, hosting the Miami Marlins after a much-needed off day. Their home opener is scheduled for Friday at 4:10 p.m. EDT, a game that the team desperately needs to turn things around.
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