The Braves fall 6-2 to the Yankees on July 18 as Spencer Strider struggles, but a late-night trade for RHP Dane Dunning signals a second-half shakeup.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The second half of the 2025 season didn't start with the bang Braves fans were hoping for. Instead, it was a familiar thud, as the New York Yankees rolled into Truist Park and handed Atlanta a 6-2 loss. But as the lights dimmed on a tough series opener, the front office was busy making moves, acquiring right-hander Dane Dunning in a late-night trade that says a lot about the team's direction.
The loss drops Atlanta to 42-54 on the season, now 13 games back in the NL East.
Spencer Strider took the mound with high hopes for a strong second-half start, but the potent Yankees lineup had other plans. Strider battled through 5 innings but was tagged for 5 runs, unable to contain the Bronx Bombers. Aaron Judge was a particular thorn in the side, going 2-for-4 with a three-run homer that broke the game open. Giancarlo Stanton added his own damage with a two-run double. The Braves' offense couldn't muster much support, scratching out just five hits. Austin Riley provided the lone spark with a solo shot in the fourth, but it wasn't nearly enough to keep pace.
While the on-field result was disappointing, the biggest news of the night came off the field. The Braves acquired RHP Dane Dunning from the Texas Rangers, sending reliever José Ruiz and cash considerations in return. Dunning, a former first-round pick, brings much-needed depth to a pitching staff that has been hit hard by injuries. The initial plan is for him to work out of the bullpen in a long-relief role, but don't be surprised if he gets a look in the starting rotation down the stretch. It's a low-risk move that signals the front office is looking to stabilize the roster and evaluate pieces for 2026.
Friday's loss serves as a harsh reminder of where the Braves stand. Now 12 games under .500 at 42-54 and a daunting 13 games behind in the NL East, a playoff run seems all but impossible. The focus now shifts from chasing a pennant to building for the future. Moves like the Dunning trade are about finding controllable assets and seeing who fits into the long-term plan. Fans will need to adjust their expectations for the remainder of the season and look for signs of progress from individual players.
While the loss stings, the Dunning trade adds a new storyline to follow. The Braves will look to bounce back tomorrow and salvage the series against a tough Yankees team. More importantly, the second half will be an extended audition for many players as the front office evaluates the roster for a 2026 rebound. It may not be a pennant race, but there's still plenty to watch for at Truist Park.
