Gerald Laird comes up big as Atlanta Braves top Colorado Rockies
The Atlanta Braves started a new series against the Colorado Rockies on Friday night, and with the Braves looking to continue their home success, the Rockies were trying to bounce back from a couple of clunkers against the Giants. I wouldn’t call this a pretty game. In fact, it was a pretty awful game to watch. Both teams were stranding runners in stylish fashion, and both pitchers gave up a lot of hits. Most of the game was a 2-2 slog where the runs were scored on sacrifices, a double, or a solo homer. This went on for six innings. Both starters left with a no-decision. Basically, this game tape is going straight in the trash after tonight.
The Braves kept nipping, though. In the 7th inning, they loaded the bases with one out, and came up empty. Pena led off the 8th with a double, but Simmons struck out. That would bring Dan Uggla to the plate, and since he can’t seem to put the ball in play that was no help either. With Pena pleading for some help at second, the last chance shot was Gerald Laird. The big guy delivered in a big way with a line shot to left. That would score Pena on a bad throw to the plate, and the Braves took the lead 3-2.
The ninth inning is Craig Kimbrel time when the Braves have the lead, and that’s a scene we all like to see at home. Craig fanned the first batter after falling behind 3-1. Then, he blew away the second hitter with the high heat. The last batter looked like a deer in the headlights as Kimbrel mowed him down to end the game. I love the smell of striking out the side in the evening. It smells like victory.
When the dust settled, the Braves took the first victory of the series. They won it despite going just 1-for-14 with runners in scoring position, which may qualify as a miracle if we petition the church. The Rockies went 1-for-9 with RISP, so it was almost as bad on their end. The pitching held firm with David Carpenter getting the win after a shutout 8th inning, and Gavin Floyd pitching 6.2 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs, and 7 strikeouts. The MVP of the game was Gerald Laird with his clutch, game-winning hit, and his double in the 2nd to score Dan Uggla. Two RBIs for Laird, and he didn’t have any RBIs until yesterday. Stay hot Gerald!
Lost in the shuffle were B.J. Upton and Jason Heyward, who each compiled two hits. Heyward’s average is inching closer to .250, and BJ has been cutting down on the strikeouts while reaching base four times on the night. Those are great signs for a team that’s managing the tougher part of their schedule with panache.
On Saturday, Mike Minor faces off against Juan Nicasio in a late afternoon game. The Braves will look to take the series and extend their first place lead in the NL East. Don’t miss it!