In what appeared to be another dramatic win for the Atlanta Braves, the team experienced a disheartening incident that could mark one of their biggest setbacks of the season, despite their late lead over the San Francisco Giants.
d’Arnaud’s Heroics in Extra Innings
Travis d’Arnaud once again proved his clutch capabilities, delivering a game-winning single in the 10th inning to drive home pinch runner Luke Williams, securing a 4-3 victory for the Braves. His hit came against Randy Rodriguez, the fifth pitcher for the Giants, with one out and Williams positioned on second base.
Iglesias Shuts the Door
Raisel Iglesias, who had already secured a win the previous night with two scoreless innings, returned to the mound to close out the game. His dominant performance, capped by four strikeouts, earned him his 25th save of the season. A critical interference call on Tyler Fitzgerald during a sacrifice bunt attempt provided Iglesias with crucial support in the final inning.
Dylan Lee, who retired the Giants in order in the ninth inning, was credited with the win, improving his record to 4-2.
Wild Pitch Leads to Late Tie
Despite their late-game heroics, the Braves had to overcome a significant setback in the eighth inning. With a 3-2 lead, Atlanta’s Pierce Johnson threw a wild pitch, allowing LaMonte Wade Jr. to score from third base, tying the game at 3-3. This incident not only erased the Braves’ advantage but also underscored the unpredictable nature of the game.
Braves Build and Lose Two-Run Leads
The Braves initially seemed in control, building a 2-0 lead in the second inning with a solo home run from Ramon Laureano and an RBI double from Jorge Soler. After the Giants cut the lead to 2-1 on a groundout by Patrick Bailey, d’Arnaud extended the Braves’ lead to 3-1 with a solo homer in the third inning.
However, the Giants continued to fight back, eventually tying the game at 3-3 with a homer by Fitzgerald in the third and Wade’s run in the eighth.
Pitchers’ Duel Ends Without a Decision
Neither starting pitcher earned a decision in the game. Braves’ Charlie Morton pitched six strong innings, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out eight. Morton left the game with a 3-2 lead, but the bullpen was unable to hold it. Meanwhile, the Giants’ Kyle Harrison allowed three runs on six hits over five innings, striking out six and walking two.
Braves Inch Ahead in Wild-Card Race
Despite the late-inning drama, the Braves’ victory moved them 3 1/2 games ahead of the Giants in the National League wild-card race. d’Arnaud’s two hits and two RBIs played a pivotal role, while Laureano and Austin Riley also contributed with two hits each. The win improved Atlanta’s record to 9-4 in extra innings, showcasing their resilience in tight situations.
However, the Braves’ triumph was tempered by the reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in baseball. As they continue their push toward the postseason, the team will need to address the issues that led to their near-collapse in this critical game.
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