Braves secure narrow victory over Padres in series opener
Home runs from Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies prove decisive in Monday night’s contest at Truist Park.
The Atlanta Braves defeated the San Diego Padres 3-2 in the opening game of a four-game home series on Monday night, a result that provided critical relief for a rotation managing a heavy workload. Bryce Elder pitched six innings for the Braves, improving his record to 6-6, while Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies hit home runs to secure the win.
Elder’s performance was particularly significant given that the Braves had utilised 13 pitchers over the preceding weekend. By limiting San Diego to two runs—both on home runs—and five hits, while recording four strikeouts and one walk, Elder allowed the bullpen to rest before the next contest. Danny Young replaced Elder in the seventh inning following a home run by Ty France that narrowed the Braves’ lead to 3-2.
Offensive production came from key contributors at pivotal moments. Michael Harris II hit a solo home run to right field in the bottom of the fifth inning, tying the game at 1-1 after Padres starter JP Spears had pitched four shutout innings. Joey Bart then drove in Mauricio Dubón with a double in the sixth inning to give Atlanta a 2-1 lead.
Ozzie Albies extended the lead in the sixth inning with his 15th home run of the season, snapping a 36-inning home run-less streak for Padres left-handed pitcher Wandy Peralta. On the opposing side, Manny Machado hit a solo home run in the fourth inning, marking his 20th of the season and the first time he has reached that mark in each of his seven seasons with the Padres.
Victor Mederos recorded his first career save in the final 2 1/3 innings to close out the victory. The series continues on Tuesday with Reynaldo López, who holds a 4-2 record with a 3.50 ERA, facing Walker Buehler, who has a 5-5 record with a 5.36 ERA.
