SPORTS

Braves shut out Phillies 9-0; Cubs rout Mets

PUBLISHED Apr 18, 2026, 12:28 AM ET

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PHILADELPHIA — The Atlanta Braves defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 9-0 on Friday night as Austin Riley hit a three-run homer in the second and a solo shot in the ninth, while Martin Perez allowed four hits over six innings; Dominic Smith and Michael Harris II also homered, and Jose Suarez recorded the save. CHICAGO — The Braves' win improved their record to 13-7 and marked their third consecutive victory, following Perez's recent designation for assignment Sunday and his minor-league signing Wednesday; in a separate game Friday, the Chicago Cubs beat the New York Mets 12-4 as Moises Ballesteros, Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ supplied home runs and the Mets extended a losing streak.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Sunday: Martin Perez was designated for assignment by his previous team.
Wednesday: Perez signed a minor league deal and joined a new organization.
Friday: Atlanta Braves routed the Philadelphia Phillies 9-0; Perez pitched six innings.
Friday: Chicago Cubs defeated the New York Mets 12-4; multiple Cubs homers recorded.
After Friday games: Braves improved to 13-7 and the Mets extended their losing streak.

News Intelligence

If you're a Braves or Cubs fan, this is a great time to celebrate. For Mets and Phillies fans, it's a tough pill to swallow. Either way, these games impact the standings and can shift the mood in your community. Check your local sports bar or social media for the latest reactions.

Media Bias

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Neutral:: 7

Who Benefited

The Atlanta Braves benefited most, improving to 13-7 after strong starting pitching from Martin Perez and multiple home runs from Austin Riley, Dominic Smith and Michael Harris II; the Chicago Cubs also gained momentum with a 12-4 win over the Mets.

Who Impacted

The Philadelphia Phillies suffered a 9-0 loss as starter Taijuan Walker allowed seven runs in four innings, while the New York Mets extended their skid as Chicago handed them their ninth straight defeat.

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