Braves 3 Angels 2
The devil over my left shoulder had a dream scenario about this game -- Cox announces that the surprise starter is none other than Dan Kolb, who proceeds (after walking the leadoff hitter on four pitches, natch) to plunk Erstad. Erstad charges the mound, but rather than stop him, the Bravos form a schoolyard ring and enjoy the mutual pummeling!
Alas, it was not to be, but the way the game actually played out was very satisfying. Who would have figured that a June game against the Angels would have a big-game aura, but this one did. The home team is racked with injuries, a summerlong, five-team battle royale is taking shape, and the opponent is suddenly and viscerally hated. Our least effective starter pitching in front of a AAA lineup, but lo and behold the Braves looked sharp.
Horacio threw a "purpose" pitch behind Erstad, and the issue was put aside. He pitched his best game of the season just when we needed it, and we got just enough offense and typically fine glovework to pull this one out. The debut of Andy Marte got second billing, but he came through with a sac fly RBI and a fine scoop and throw that Chipper has long done so well. Reitsma looked great in the ninth inning, putting to rest for one day our eternal bullpen worries.
Giles was reportedly upset about not starting, saying "I don't know what's going on", but Betemit has earned playing time. It was a gutsy move by Cox to dare to further tweak an already depleted lineup, but expect Giles back tomorrow. He doesn't seem the type to sulk.
Alas, it was not to be, but the way the game actually played out was very satisfying. Who would have figured that a June game against the Angels would have a big-game aura, but this one did. The home team is racked with injuries, a summerlong, five-team battle royale is taking shape, and the opponent is suddenly and viscerally hated. Our least effective starter pitching in front of a AAA lineup, but lo and behold the Braves looked sharp.
Horacio threw a "purpose" pitch behind Erstad, and the issue was put aside. He pitched his best game of the season just when we needed it, and we got just enough offense and typically fine glovework to pull this one out. The debut of Andy Marte got second billing, but he came through with a sac fly RBI and a fine scoop and throw that Chipper has long done so well. Reitsma looked great in the ninth inning, putting to rest for one day our eternal bullpen worries.
Giles was reportedly upset about not starting, saying "I don't know what's going on", but Betemit has earned playing time. It was a gutsy move by Cox to dare to further tweak an already depleted lineup, but expect Giles back tomorrow. He doesn't seem the type to sulk.
posted by Sam Bass | 10:26 PM
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