BRAVES OPEN SERIES WITH WIN OVER CUBS

The Atlanta Braves snapped a two-game losing skid with an 8-7 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Monday evening in the opener of a four-game series at Truist Park.

Atlanta took an early lead with four runs in the bottom of the first inning, but Chicago tied it up on a grand slam by Kris Bryant during the top of the third. Dansby Swanson retrieved the lead for the Braves with a solo homerun in the bottom of that inning. Freddie Freeman also contributed a tie-breaking home run, a three-run shot in the bottom of the fifth.

Charlie Morton was credited as the winning pitcher after giving up four runs and five hits, walking three, and striking out six over five and a third innings. Will Smith picked up the save, his fifth of the season.

The Braves will face the Cubs again tonight at Truist Park. First pitch is set for 7:20 pm. The game will be broadcast on WLAQ 1410 AM and 96.9 FM; air time is 6:05 pm.