Andrew Knizner smashed a three-run home run, while Adolis García contributed with a two-run shot as the Texas Rangers prevented a three-game sweep with a 6-4 win over the Atlanta Braves on Sunday night.

Evan Carter also hit a home run as the reigning World Series champions overturned an early 3-0 deficit, putting an end to Atlanta’s six-game winning streak. Michael Lorenzen (2-0) bounced back from a challenging start, conceding three runs and three hits while striking out seven batters over six innings.

David Robertson pitched 1 2/3 innings in relief, and Kirby Yates secured his third save by getting four outs. Marcell Ozuna smashed his ninth homer of the season for the Braves, a three-run shot off Lorenzen in the first inning. Atlanta rookie Darius Vines (1-1) surrendered four runs and seven hits over five innings, recording six strikeouts and two walks.

Evan Carter, at the age of 21, was bound to face challenges in maintaining the lofty standards he set for himself.

Last September, he made a dazzling debut, stepping in for the injured Adolis García and impressively batting .306 with a 1.058 OPS in 23 regular-season games. He quickly became a standout performer among a team brimming with All-Stars during the Rangers’ World Series campaign, boasting a slash line of .300/.417/.500 while featuring in all 17 postseason matchups.

However, despite his remarkable start, Carter’s current batting average of .194 leading into Sunday’s series finale against the Braves was certainly unexpected.

Manager Bruce Bochy acknowledged Carter’s struggle, stating, “I don’t think he’s hit his stride yet. We’ve seen his potential, but he’s still working to find that consistent swing that suits him. Nevertheless, he’s finding ways to get on base and contribute, and he just needs to keep refining his approach.”

While it’s only a single game, Carter seems to be making progress. In Sunday night’s matchup, the outfielder delivered a 2-for-4 performance, including a solo home run, his third of the season. Additionally, he achieved his first regular-season hit against a left-handed pitcher, beating out an infield single in the eighth inning.

Carter endured a challenging start to the season, going hitless in his first 15 at-bats over the initial five games. Subsequently, leading up to Sunday’s game, he had only managed one hit in his last 20 at-bats.

“I think his recent numbers reflect that he’s not currently performing at his best,” remarked Bochy. “However, it’s important to recognize that he’s still a work in progress. Many hitters, both rookies and veterans alike, are currently facing similar struggles. While it’s easy to attribute it to pitchers figuring them out, it’s worth noting that even seasoned hitters are experiencing difficulties at this time. Overall, I believe he’s handling the situation well.”