The Atlanta Braves continued their impressive form as they head into the postseason, delivering another strong performance.

 

In a game where both teams wasted no time getting their offense going, the Braves emerged victorious with a 5-3 win over the Chicago Cubs, securing homefield advantage throughout the postseason.

 

The Cubs took an early lead in the first inning after AJ Smith-Shawver walked Mike Tauchman, who then stole second base. A ground out followed by a fielder’s choice allowed the Cubs to score their first run as Travis d’Arnaud was unable to tag Tauchman during a play at the plate.

 

However, the Braves quickly responded, turning the deficit into a lead in their half of the first inning. Despite Marcus Stroman getting the first two batters out, he surrendered a single to Austin Riley with two outs. This set the stage for Matt Olson, who took a low inside pitch and sent it deep to right field. Olson’s 54th home run of the season landed in the Chop House area, giving the Braves a 2-1 lead. This home run also marked Olson’s 136th RBI of the season, setting a new single-season franchise record for the Braves.

 

Matt Olson’s incredible season at the plate has seen him dominate both the home run and RBI charts for the Braves this year, showcasing his batting prowess.

The Braves continued their offensive onslaught over the next three innings, while AJ Smith-Shawver settled in on the mound. Eddie Rosario started an inning with a double after Ian Happ missed what should have been a routine catch. Michael Harris II’s one-out double allowed Rosario to score, extending the Braves’ lead to 4-1. Ronald Acuña Jr. added to the tally with a two-out hit into shallow center field, driving in Harris and further solidifying the Braves’ lead at 4-1.