Braves 9 Phillies 1

Earl Weaver would have loved this game. Strong starting pitching supported by a pair of three-run HRs, and the Braves righted themselves after two tough losses to the Marlins. I've joined M Norman as a Kelly Johnson believer, and Andruw twice hit the ball about as hard as it can be hit, on his double and homer. Adam LaRoche drove in the remaining three runs with a single and homer, and Johnson and Furcal reached base four times each.

Smoltz wore down after six innings and 86 pitches -- not surprising considering his recent workload. The bullpen, for a change, did not allow the Phillies to sniff a comeback, as Boyer, Brower, and Reitsma were all effective.

It's been alleged that the Braves need an upgrade at first base, but it must be said that Julidam FraRoche are doing a fine job of producing runs. Their percentages don't look great (.260/.320/.443 entering tonight's game), but they're on pace for 120 RBI as first basemen (they also have 12 RBI as PH/DHs). Not too shabby -- think Tino Martinez in his prime. I'll take that any day.