The Atlanta Braves became the first MLB team to clinch a playoff berth in 2023 with a 5-2 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday afternoon in the last outing of a three-game set at Truist Park. Atlanta took the weekend series by 2-1.
The Pirates scored two runs in the top of the sixth with RBI doubles by Bryan Reynolds and Jack Suwinski. The Braves got on the board during the bottom of that inning on a ground-out by Matt Olson. They took the lead with a two-run single from Ronald Acuna Jr in the seventh.
Olson also had a two-run single in that inning to increase the Braves’ lead to 5-2, and it is by that final score that they beat the Pirates.
Brad Hand was credited with the win in relief, while Raisel Iglesias secured the save for Atlanta. Starting pitcher Allan Winans surrendered just two runs and six hits, walked none, and struck out eight in six and one-third innings of work. Colin Selby was charged with the loss for Pittsburgh.
The National League East-leading Braves improved their MLB-best record to 93-49 on the 2023 regular season. They will open a four-game division set in Philadelphia against the Phillies with a day-night double-header today. Catch all the action from the Atlanta Braves Radio Network on WLAQ 1410 AM or 96.9 FM. First pitch of game one is set for 1:05 pm with airtime at 11:50 am. The nightcap is scheduled to begin at 6:40 pm with airtime at 5:25 pm.