Olson's walk-off lifts Braves; Cardinals complete four-game sweep
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Atlanta — Matt Olson delivered a two-run, ninth-inning home run that lifted the Atlanta Braves to a 4-3 walk-off victory over the Detroit Tigers Wednesday, with Ozzie Albies reaching base ahead of Olson and Reynaldo Lopez recording scoreless relief to secure the win. In Pittsburgh Thursday, the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Pirates 10-5 to complete a four-game sweep, led by homers and multi-hit efforts.
The immediate consequences include a credited win for Lopez and a loss added to Kenley Jansen's season record Wednesday, and a setback for Paul Skenes Thursday after allowing five runs in five innings; both outcomes affect bullpen workload and short-term rotation decisions as teams prepare for upcoming divisional matchups this week and adjust roster usage accordingly.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Wednesday: Ozzie Albies walks to lead off ninth inning against Detroit.
- 2. Wednesday: Matt Olson hits a 397-foot two-run walk-off homer for Atlanta.
- 3. Wednesday: Reynaldo Lopez records the win in scoreless relief; Kenley Jansen takes the loss.
- 4. Thursday: JJ Wetherholt and Jordan Walker homer as Cardinals score early against Pittsburgh.
- 5. Thursday: Cardinals finish 10-5 win to complete four-game sweep; Paul Skenes allowed five runs.
Why it matters
These games impact your favorite teams' standings and strategies. If you're a Braves or Cardinals fan, it's a good week. If you're rooting for the Tigers or Pirates, not so much. It also affects fantasy baseball players' stats and decisions.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
