The Braves earned a series-clinching win against the Orioles on Sunday.
The Atlanta Braves defeated the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, winning by a final score of 3-2. Atlanta held a 2-1 lead heading into the bottom of the 9th inning, but Baltimore tied the game 2-2 as closer Raisel Iglesias surrendered one unearned run. The Braves were able to bounce back and score one run in the top of the 11th inning. The Orioles loaded the bases in the bottom of the 11th, but the Braves were able to work out of trouble.
Dominic Smith had a big game. He has continued to help the team.
The veteran slugger led the offense with three hits and two RBI in the ball game. Smith has made an impact throughout the season. The Braves' decision to add him before the season was overlooked, but it has been an extremely impactful move without question. The slugger is currently hitting .266/.322/.393 to go along with seven home runs.
Overall, the lineup scored only three runs on eight hits. It was enough to get the job done, though.
Reynaldo Lopez started the game for the Braves. He allowed just five hits while surrendering no runs across 5.2 innings of work on the mound. Lopez added six strikeouts and walked only one hitter.
The right-handed pitcher now holds a 3.64 ERA in 24 total outings (11 starts). He is a versatile veteran who has helped the pitching staff in multiple roles so far this year.
The bullpen was not perfect but it still helped the team win.
What's Next for the Braves?
The Braves' road trip will continue to begin the upcoming week, as Atlanta will travel to New York to play the Mets in a three-game series. The ball club will return home following their series in New York for a four-game series against the Washington Nationals.
Atlanta is now 62-43 overall. The Braves are currently six games ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East standings. The Phillies were within a couple of games of first place not long ago, but the Braves' recent performance has led to them capturing a more comfortable division lead once again.
Still, there is work to do as the season moves forward. Atlanta knows it needs to continue playing well with no shortage of baseball left to be played.
First pitch for the Braves' next game is scheduled for Monday night at 7:10 PM ET in New York.
