It appeared the Braves were destined to complete a familiar script on Friday night after falling behind 4-0 early on. Atlanta starter Bryce Elder wasn't missing many bats, and the Braves' lineup was frustratingly silent. Heading into the bottom of the 8th inning, the Braves trailed 4-1, with the team's lone run coming on a Jarred Kelenic solo shot.
Marcell Ozuna would follow an Austin Riley strikeout with a walk that would start an unexpected rally. Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson, and Michael Harris would all come up with clutch hits to tie the game and bring rookie catcher Drake Baldwin to the plate with two runners on. The rookie delivered a clutch hit that would give Atlanta the lead and eventual win in what felt to be a monumental comeback for Atlanta.
The Braves' Thrilling Comeback Turned the Clock Back to Happier Times in Atlanta
This is the type of resilience and relentless offensive attack that defined Atlanta's 2023 season. Last year's major regression was overlooked based on the consistent injuries that prevented the lineup from reaching its full potential. However, that excuse didn't work for this year's group, who had consistently been the complete opposite of clutch. Drake Baldwin's game-winning hit felt bigger than one game. The moment seemed to be a clear page turn, a sign that this team is coming out of the offensive fog that has helped set up such an underwhelming start.
What makes Atlanta's five-run inning more impressive is the fact that it happened without a single home run. Whether it was a clutch walk from Sean Murphy or Michael Harris stealing a key base, this was a complete team effort that generated a huge inning without the benefit of the longball. This is who Atlanta's lineup was consistently in 2023 and where they must return if they are going to climb their way back into contention.
For rookie Drake Baldwin to be able to deliver the moment seemed especially fitting. No Atlanta player has had tougher luck to begin the year. Despite working consistently great at bat early on, the results simply hadn't been there for the young catcher. It didn't help the rookie's playing time either that Sean Murphy burst back onto the scene with a huge opening series.
This has left Baldwin's role in doubt, and the rookie being able to deliver in such a huge spot not only felt huge for Atlanta's season but for the rookie's job security. No question, this is easily Atlanta's most impressive win of the young season and what fans expect to see moving forward.