Strider Dominates, Acuña Stays Hot as Braves Beat Rockies 4-1
Spencer Strider struck out 13 batters to notch his first win of the season, while Ronald Acuña Jr. continued his strong form with two hits, including a two-run homer, as the Atlanta Braves defeated the Colorado Rockies 4-1 on Saturday.
With the loss, Colorado (13-57) now holds the worst record through 70 games in the modern era, surpassing the 1932 Boston Red Sox (14-56) for that dubious distinction. The Rockies also set a new franchise record by striking out 19 times in a nine-inning game—matching the Braves’ own team record for strikeouts in a standard-length game.
Atlanta, now regaining momentum, has won back-to-back series after previously losing six in a row and falling 10 games below .500. The Braves have outscored the Rockies 16-5 in the first two games of the series, including Friday’s 12-4 offensive outburst.
Strider (1-5) was in control throughout his six innings, giving up just three hits and one walk. It was his sixth outing since returning from the injured list on May 19.
Game-Changing Moment
Acuña, batting .387, launched a two-run homer off Chase Dollander (2-7) in the second inning. It was his seventh home run in just 20 games since returning from knee surgery on May 23. The 410-foot shot landed in Colorado’s bullpen beyond the left field wall.
Notable Stat
Strider’s fastball velocity reached 97–98 mph early in the game, nearly matching his pre-surgery form. Even as his speed dipped slightly to 95–96 mph by the fifth inning, his strikeout total kept climbing, showing signs of a full return to dominance following his 2024 elbow surgery.
What’s Next
The series wraps up Sunday with Grant Holmes (3-5, 4.07 ERA) starting for Atlanta against Colorado’s Austin Gomber (5-12, 4.75 ERA). Originally slated starter Chris Sale will have his next appearance delayed by one game.
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