In Atlanta, the Braves' rotation is looking sharp, and Bryce Elder is leading the charge. With a strong six-inning performance, Elder quieted any early-season doubts as the Braves shut out the Athletics 4-0.
So far, the Braves' starting pitchers have been lights out, allowing just four runs over 23 innings. They've struck out 18 while walking eight, setting a solid foundation for their 3-1 start to the season.
The Braves' offense got rolling early, putting up three runs in the first inning against Athletics starter Jacob Lopez. A combination of three hits and three walks set the tone, and they tacked on another run in the eighth with Mauricio Dubon's RBI single, driving in Mike Yastrzemski after his triple.
Elder was the star of the night, giving up just five hits and one walk while fanning five batters over his six innings. His performance continues a streak since last August, making him the only MLB pitcher with seven starts of at least six innings allowing three runs or fewer.
The bullpen was rock solid, with Aaron Bummer, Robert Suarez, and Raisel Iglesias each pitching a scoreless inning to lock down the win.
Looking ahead, the Braves will send lefty Jose Suarez to the mound on Tuesday against Athletics right-hander Aaron Civale. Manager Walt Weiss had Suarez and Martin Perez as potential starters, but Suarez gets the nod while Spencer Strider recovers from an oblique injury. Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep, both dealing with elbow issues, are expected back this summer.
Braves fans have more to look forward to as 25 games will be simulcast for free across Braves Country through Gray Media's local stations, covering 26 markets in the Southeast. For broadcast details, fans should check local listings.