Braves, Cubs split series with contrasting pitching performances
Tap title to read story
Atlanta — On Tuesday night at Truist Park, the Atlanta Braves beat the Chicago Cubs 5-2 when Grant Holmes and three relievers combined on a one-hitter and Austin Riley and Mike Yastrzemski hit homers that fueled a four-run fifth inning; two days later in Atlanta the Cubs responded with a 2-0 victory.
Tuesday's win improved Atlanta's record and featured Raisel Iglesias recording a scoreless ninth as the bullpen preserved the lead, while Thursday's shutout snapped Chicago's four-game skid as Ian Happ hit a go-ahead home run and Ben Brown struck out seven in a four-inning start; both clubs face immediate bullpen and lineup decisions this week.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Grant Holmes started for Atlanta Tuesday and did not allow more than one hit total with relievers.
- 2. Tuesday fifth inning: Austin Riley and Mike Yastrzemski hit homers, producing a four-run rally for Atlanta.
- 3. Raisel Iglesias closed Tuesday with a scoreless ninth, extending a stretch of 11 2/3 innings without allowing a run.
- 4. Thursday night: Ian Happ hit a home run and five Cubs pitchers combined for a 2-0 shutout in Atlanta.
- 5. Ben Brown allowed one hit, struck out seven in four innings Thursday, helping Chicago snap a four-game losing streak.
Why it matters
The Braves and Cubs' recent games show the importance of a strong bullpen in baseball. If you're a fan, you'll want to watch how these teams adjust their lineups and pitching strategies in the coming week. It could make or break their season.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
