The Atlanta Braves faced a tough outing in their spring matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays, falling 7-0. The Braves' offense struggled to find its rhythm, managing just six hits throughout the game.
However, the real challenge came on the mound. JR Ritchie, making his first spring start, pitched four innings, allowing two runs on a single hit.
His control was shaky, issuing four walks while striking out two. José Suarez took over in relief and found himself in hot water, giving up five runs in just 2.2 innings.
Despite the setback, the Braves are eager to turn the page as they prepare to take on the Tampa Bay Rays this afternoon.
In other Braves news, Baseball America's latest mock draft predicts the Braves will select an outfielder from the University of Virginia and a high school shortstop from Alabama. Meanwhile, our 2026 positional preview series continues with a focus on the infield. Additionally, several familiar faces appeared on FanGraphs’ updated Top 33 Prospects list.
Turning to broader MLB news, former Brave Julio Teheran has announced his retirement. This comes shortly after missing a scheduled start in the World Baseball Classic due to a shoulder injury. On another note, Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene is set for elbow surgery today, expected to sideline him until July as he undergoes an arthroscopic procedure to remove bone chips and loose bodies from his throwing elbow.