The Atlanta Braves finally got their first win of this early season by beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 10-2. Several positive developments happened tonight:
- Jair Jurrjens won his first game as a Brave. He threw 88 pitches in 5.1 innings. He gave up 7 hits, one walk and he K’d five batters with 2 earned runs. Fantasy players, grab him now because he looked pretty good with his control. His ERA was 3.375 and he had a 1.5 WHIP. This is the type of performance the Braves need from the rotation.
- Yunel Escobar hit his first home run of the season, and it comes pretty quick. If Escobar can hit double-digit home runs, it will have a huge impact on the offense already loaded with big bats. Escobar is turning into a solid player.
- Matt Diaz hit a homer, too. Good news for an outfield that has looked sluggish out of the gates.
- The bullpen held up. We still haven’t had a close situation, but tonight was a good sign that the relievers can rebound from some sketchy situations.
Tomorrow we finally get to see Mike Hampton. I am actually pretty excited to see him pitch because his success has a lot to do with the Braves winning the National League. The Braves took a risk signing Tom Glavine, and I think we all could tell the brass was betting the bank that Hampton would finally produce. We’ll see.
Filed under: Uncategorized | Tagged: Atlanta Braves, braves bullpen, Jair Jurrjens, Matt Diaz, Mike Hampton, Pittsburg Pirates, Tom Glavine, Yunel Escobar
Jair gets win #1. Gives up 2 ER’s in 5.1 innings. The bullpen did not give up a run. Tex homers and is no longer 0-6.
I’d say that’s a good night. Now let’s get a win tomorrow, win the series and beat the Mets!
JB in ATL
http://bravesblog.net
I agree. That was a good game for the Braves and key for the rotation. I cannot wait for the Jurrjens jerseys!!!!