Max Fried led the Atlanta Braves to a 3-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, solidifying their spot in the wild card race. The left-handed pitcher dominated on the mound, allowing only one run and four hits in seven innings.
Fried’s performance was crucial for the Braves, who are currently in a tight race for the National League wild card spot. With this win, they now hold a 2.5 game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies.
The 27-year-old pitcher has been a key player for the Braves this season, with a record of 11-7 and an impressive 3.49 ERA. He has also been a consistent presence on the mound, pitching at least six innings in each of his last 10 starts.
Fried’s dominance was evident from the start, as he struck out the first three batters he faced. He continued to stifle the Blue Jays’ offense, allowing only one run in the fourth inning.
The Braves’ offense also played a crucial role in the win, with Freddie Freeman hitting a two-run homer in the first inning and Ozzie Albies adding an RBI single in the fifth.
Despite a late rally from the Blue Jays in the ninth inning, Braves closer Will Smith shut down the potential comeback, securing the win for Fried and the team.
This win marks the Braves’ fourth consecutive victory and their 10th win in their last 12 games. With a record of 73-65, they are now tied with the Cincinnati Reds for the second wild card spot.
The Blue Jays, on the other hand, have now lost three in a row and are 3.5 games behind the Red Sox for the second American League wild card spot.
The Braves will look to continue their winning streak as they face the Miami Marlins in a three-game series starting on Friday. With Fried’s dominant performance and the team’s strong offense, they are in a good position to secure their spot in the playoffs.
