Braves Aiming to Overcome Offensive Struggles in Game 2: Conquer the Field

The Atlanta Braves were shut out for the first time at home since 2021 in Game 1 of the National League Division Series (NLDS). However, they are determined to put that loss behind them and move forward.

• By
  Kris Willis
  
• on October 8, 2023 12:00 pm

ATLANTA — While all eyes are on Max Fried as the Atlanta Braves’ starter for Game 2, there is also significant focus on the offense that suffered its third shutout of the season in Saturday’s loss in Game 1. Despite having the best offense in the league during the regular season, the Braves left seven runners on base and went 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position. In addition, they failed to produce any extra-base hits in the game.

“I mean, they pitched well,” commented Matt Olson after the game. “Suarez pitched well, and we know they have a strong bullpen. We left a couple of guys on base, but that’s baseball.”

The lack of offensive performance left fans searching for answers, with many focusing on a pregame lineup change that saw Austin Riley move up to the second spot in the batting order while Ozzie Albies dropped to fourth. However, both Brian Snitker and Riley denied that this change had any impact on the offensive struggles.

“I don’t think so. This lineup is so talented,” Riley stated. “Anybody can change the game with a single swing of the bat. I don’t believe that had an effect on anything.”

In the eighth inning, it seemed like the Braves might gain some momentum when Ronald Acuña Jr. walked and Riley followed with a single to left field. However, after a deep fly out by Olson, Ozzie Albies hit a sharp grounder back up the middle that was brilliantly fielded by Phillies shortstop, Trea Turner. Turner made a diving stop and quickly turned it into an inning-ending double play.

“It was an outstanding play,” acknowledged Olson. “Ozzie hit the ball well, and Turner had to range out to his left to make the play. To turn a double play on Ozzie, you have to execute it quickly.”

Despite the disappointment of Game 1, the Braves understand the importance of quickly shifting their focus. They will have a workout on Sunday at Truist Park before continuing the series on Monday in Game 2 against Zack Wheeler.

“There’s nothing we can do about it now,” said Olson. “We’ll come in tomorrow, have a workout, and prepare for Wheeler on Monday. Then we’ll go out there and play our game.”

Riley added, “You just have to come in tomorrow, trust your routine and the preparations you’ve made over the past six months to get to this point. Try to slow the game down as much as possible. Slowing down the game and staying present in the moment is crucial. We need to trust our abilities.”

One thing that has become evident about this Braves team is their refusal to panic. They recognize that the road ahead has become more challenging, but their ability to focus on the immediate task at hand is one of their greatest strengths. Game 1 is now in the past, and the entire team’s attention is on Game 2, with the goal of leveling the series.

“It’s just one game, and we play a five-game series for a reason,” said Olson. “That’s the beauty of it. So, we’ll come back on Monday and try to secure a win.”

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