Drake Baldwin's 6 RBI led the Braves to a 9-5 rout of the Giants on July 22. See how the rookie's career night snapped Atlanta's frustrating losing streak.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought the summer doldrums were setting in for good, rookie catcher Drake Baldwin decided to have the game of his life. In a much-needed offensive explosion, Baldwin drove in a staggering six runs to power the Atlanta Braves to a 9-5 victory over the San Francisco Giants, snapping a frustrating losing streak and giving the Truist Park faithful something to roar about.
Rookie Drake Baldwin drove in six runs, including a bases-clearing double in the first inning and a three-run homer in the fourth.
The Braves didn't waste any time setting the tone, hanging a five-spot on the Giants in the very first inning. The big blow came from Baldwin, who cleared the loaded bases with a ringing double. As if that wasn't enough, he came up again in the fourth and blasted a three-run homer to put the game on ice. It was a career night for the young backstop and a massive boost for an offense that has struggled for consistency. While Baldwin was the hero, Ronald Acuña Jr. was his usual dynamic self, scoring three times and swiping his 34th base of the season. On the mound, Bryce Elder battled through 5.2 innings to earn the win, giving the bullpen a manageable lead to protect.
The action wasn't just confined to the field. The front office was busy, making a series of moves that significantly altered the roster. The biggest news was the return of Jurickson Profar, who was activated after serving his 80-game PED suspension. Profar's switch-hitting ability and defensive versatility in the outfield are welcome additions. To make room, the Braves designated the struggling Alex Verdugo for assignment, ending a short and disappointing tenure. In a smaller but notable move, veteran catcher Sandy León was called up from Gwinnett to provide experienced depth, with outfielder Stuart Fairchild being DFA'd in the corresponding transaction.
As if a huge win and a roster shuffle weren't enough, the best news might still be on its way. All-Star third baseman Austin Riley, who has been on the injured list with a hamstring strain since July 12, is on the cusp of returning. He completed all baseball activities and is eligible to be activated as soon as today. Getting his bat (.274, 18 HR) back in the heart of the order would be a monumental lift for this team. His steady glove at the hot corner has been sorely missed, and his presence could be the final piece needed to spark a legitimate turnaround.
Last night felt like more than just one win. It was an injection of energy from a rookie, a sign of life from the offense, and a signal from the front office that they're not standing pat. With Austin Riley potentially slotting back into the lineup tonight and Jurickson Profar getting his first look, this team suddenly has a different feel. The question now is whether this momentum is a mirage or the start of a much-needed mid-summer surge. All eyes will be on Truist Park to see if the Braves can build on it.
