The Braves capitalized on strong performances from Austin Riley and Chris Sale to secure a 7-3 victory over the Rays at Truist Park on Friday night, marking their second consecutive win. The game started unfavorably for Atlanta, with Sale surrendering a lead-off single to Yandy Diaz, hitting Randy Arozarena with a pitch, and allowing an RBI double to Amed Rosario, which put Tampa ahead 1-0. However, Sale limited the damage by recording a line-out and two strikeouts to end the inning.
Atlanta’s offense responded swiftly in the bottom of the first. Michael Harris led off with a single, and Ozzie Albies followed with a double. Marcell Ozuna then hit a three-run homer, giving the Braves a 3-1 lead. The rally continued as Matt Olson doubled, and Austin Riley added another double, pushing the lead to 4-1. Riley later scored on a throwing error by Rays pitcher Zack Littell, extending the lead to 5-1. However, Harris had to exit the game due to left hamstring tightness, with JP Martinez taking his place.
The Braves’ offense struck again in the second inning. Ozuna walked, and Riley hit a two-run homer, widening the gap to 7-1. Chris Sale dominated from the mound, pitching scoreless innings through the sixth and maintaining control until the seventh, where Jose Siri’s double and Richie Palacios’ RBI double cut the lead. Sale completed his night with seven innings pitched, allowing two earned runs, five hits, striking out seven, and walking two, lowering his season ERA to 2.98.
Reliever Jesse Chavez pitched a clean eighth inning, while Dylan Lee gave up a run in the ninth, prompting Raisel Iglesias to close the game. The Braves ultimately secured a 7-3 win, marking the first time since April that they scored five or more runs in consecutive games. Atlanta improved to a 37-30 record, while Tampa fell to 33-37. The Braves aim to clinch the series with Charlie Morton facing Ryan Pepiot in the next game at 4:10 pm ET.
