In an impressive offensive display, the Atlanta Braves powered their way to a convincing 10-3 victory over the Washington Nationals in the opening game of their series. The Braves, who collected a staggering 18 hits, showcased their prowess at the plate, led by Major League home run leader Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies, who both homered.
Ozzie Albies played a central role in the offensive onslaught, going 4-for-6 and driving in four runs, which pushed him past the 100-RBI mark for the season. Joining him in the hitting spree were Orlando Arcia, Austin Riley, and Michael Harris II, each contributing three hits. The win improved the NL East champion Braves’ record to 98-55, marking just their second victory in the last seven games.
Braves’ starter Max Fried (8-1) delivered a splendid performance, pitching six innings and allowing only one run on three hits and one walk while striking out seven Nationals’ batters. His return to the mound after not pitching since September 12 was notable.
Washington’s only run until the ninth inning came from Alex Call’s solo home run in the third inning, his eighth of the season. However, the Nationals struggled to generate offense in the face of the Braves’ pitching.
Despite the offensive outburst, the Braves left 13 runners stranded and went 6-for-23 with runners in scoring position. Their five-run third inning, initiated by Albies with an RBI double, set the tone for their offensive onslaught.
Washington’s starter, Jake Irvin (3-7), had a difficult outing, surrendering five runs in just 2 2/3 innings. He has not recorded a victory in over two months.
The Braves held a commanding 7-1 lead heading into the eighth inning when Matt Olson, the Major League home run leader, blasted his 53rd homer of the season. It marked his first home run in five games, and he finished the game with two hits and two runs scored.
Atlanta’s offensive rhythm continued into the ninth inning, with Albies launching his 32nd home run of the season, contributing to two more runs for the Braves.
In contrast, the Nationals, who scored 13 runs in their previous game against the Chicago White Sox, managed just eight hits and struck out 10 times against the Braves’ pitching staff.
