The Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants are both vying for a wild card spot in the National League as they conclude their four-game series in San Francisco. The Braves took the first two contests, winning 1-0 in a thrilling 10-inning opener on Monday, followed by a close 4-3 victory in another extra innings affair on Tuesday. With the Giants looking to bounce back from two tough losses, fans are left wondering whether they can turn the tide or if the Braves will leave with another win. This article was crafted before the conclusion of the third game at Oracle Park on Wednesday night.
Braves Aim to Sustain Winning Streak
The Braves are looking to extend their winning streak to three games after a hard-fought victory against the Giants on Tuesday night. As of Wednesday, Atlanta’s record stood at 63-56, placing them second in the NL East, six games behind the Philadelphia Phillies. They are currently two games ahead of the New York Mets, holding the final wild card position in the playoff race.
In Tuesday’s game, Atlanta’s offense was highlighted by two hits each from Travis d’Arnaud (who contributed a run and two RBIs), Ramon Laureano (who scored a run and drove in another), and Austin Riley, leading to a solid 10-hit performance. Notably, both Laureano and d’Arnaud hit home runs, showcasing the team’s power. Although Charlie Morton did not earn a decision after pitching six innings and allowing two runs, Dylan Lee (4-2) secured the win with a flawless ninth inning, while Raisel Iglesias garnered his 25th save after a perfect 10th inning.
Max Fried, with a record of 7-6 and a 3.56 ERA, will take the mound for the Braves on getaway day. Despite struggling in his recent outings, he has historically performed well against the Giants, holding a 4-0 record with a 2.40 ERA in his previous eight starts against them. Fried’s recent performance, however, raises concerns as he has a 6.28 ERA over his last three starts.
Giants Looking to Reverse Their Fortune
The Giants are searching for answers after suffering three consecutive losses, all by just one run, including two heartbreaking defeats to the Braves in extra innings. With a record of 61-61 as of Wednesday, they sit fourth in the NL West and trail the Los Angeles Dodgers by 11 games. They are currently 3.5 games behind the Braves for the last wild card spot.
In Tuesday’s game, San Francisco managed seven hits, but only Heliot Ramos contributed more than one hit. Tyler Fitzgerald’s 13th home run of the season served as a bright spot, but the Giants struggled significantly with runners in scoring position, going 0 for 10 and leaving 10 men on base. Kyle Harrison pitched well enough to keep the game competitive but did not earn a decision due to the late-game collapse.
Logan Webb, who has shown strong form recently, will be on the mound as he makes his 26th start of the season. With a record of 10-8 and a 3.32 ERA, Webb has been a reliable presence for the Giants, winning his last three starts and boasting a 0.83 ERA during that stretch. His past performance against the Braves, where he holds a 3-1 record with a 2.98 ERA, adds a layer of hope for San Francisco as they look to avoid a series sweep.
Best Bets for Atlanta Braves vs. San Francisco Giants
The Braves have secured victories in the initial games of this series, but the pitching matchup for the finale suggests a more balanced contest. While both starters have had success against their opponents historically, their current form tells a different story. Fried’s recent struggles, particularly since returning from the injured list, have raised questions about his effectiveness. Meanwhile, Webb’s impressive streak could give the Giants the edge they need in this critical matchup. As the teams battle for postseason positioning, all eyes will be on this pivotal game.
