Atlanta Braves: Spring Training Game One Recap

The Atlanta Braves got their season underway with a exhibition match against the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Braves starting lineup all got in two at-bats in Saturday’s spring opener with Freddie Freeman, Dansby Swanson, Adonis Garcia, and Tyler Flowers all getting hits in their first Spring Training action.

Bartolo Colon made his Spring debut and pitched two innings giving up one earned run on three hits and a strikeout. Overall any start for a veteran pitcher in spring without injury or being blown up is a successful one. Colon looked to be comfortable in his debut though there is still some obvious rust to be shaken off this early in the season.

John Danks and Blaine Boyer followed Colon. Both struggled early and gave up runs against the Blue Jays. Danks seemed to be very rusty, Boyer on the flip side had his moments that he could build off of in his debut and make a push for an opening day roster spot.

Jace Peterson had a nice start in what could be a make or break year for the young infielder he started out his season with a game tying single in the 5th inning. Peterson is an important piece for the Braves bench and should be paid close attention to throughout spring training and the early part of the Braves season.

After Peteron’s RBI single he stole second and was later driven in by Anthony Recker who broke the tie with a hit that gave the Braves a 6-4 lead. Mauricio Cabrera made his spring training debut as well and reportedly hit 103 with just his second pitch in Spring action. Cabrera is expected to be an integral part of the Braves bullpen.  His first outing was a success considering he didn’t give up the Braves lead or make any mistakes that would hurt his chances of starting the season in the bullpen.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

The Braves went on to win the game 7-4 in the opener.