Atlanta Braves: Grapefruit League Play Check Up
By Deke Lloyd
The Atlanta Braves have been busy over the last two days in Grapefruit League play, including a split-squad game on Friday. Let’s check in on what’s been happening over the last couple of days.
On Thursday, the Atlanta Braves took on the St. Louis Cardinals. The Braves would win the game against the Cardinals after strong pitching performances from the bullpen. Also, Felix Hernandez got his second start of the Spring.
In his first start, Felix Hernandez looked strong against the Baltimore Orioles. King Felix looked just as strong in his second start against the Cards. Hernandez would pitch 2.2 innings giving up one run, striking out 4 and giving up no walks. Felix continues to push for one of the final rotation spots. Between the litany of pitchers, Hernandez has looked the strongest in the Spring. Don’t be surprised to see the Braves one million dollar investment in Felix pay off.
On Friday, the Braves split the squad to play the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves would go on to lose both of those games, but there was much to be learned from both games. At least, a lot to look as far as the pitchers are concerned.
In the Yankees game, Mike Soroka got his first start of the Spring. Soroka’s success as the Braves Ace is going to be vital the Braves reaching their lofty aspirations this season. In his first start, Soroka didn’t disappoint. Soroka pitched 2 innings while giving up threes hits, no runs. He recorded three strikeouts and no walks.
In the Phillies game, Bryse Wilson got his second start of the Spring. In his first start, Wilson didn’t impress like he was hoping to. His second start was much better.
Wilson went 2.2 innings against the Phillies. He allowed one hit and no runs, after getting touched in his first start, Wilson struck out two and walked one to finish his day.
The Braves are in action this evening, with the Tampa Bay Rays. Max Fried got his second start of the Spring after his horrid first start. Fried made up for it against the Rays, going 2.2 innings while allowing three hits and no runs. Fried walked two and struck out one before he was pulled. Overall, a much better day for Fried.
The Braves are back in action tomorrow with the Boston Red Sox. Mike Foltynewicz gets the nod for tomorrow afternoon. Stay tuned for all the updates throughout Spring as we continue to check in this tight pitching race.