Rookie Spencer Schwellenbach shines with 7 shutout innings as the Braves beat the Mets 3-0 on June 23, 2025. See how his dominance and Sean Murphy's return sealed the win.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Atlanta Braves kicked off their pivotal series in New York with a message, delivered loud and clear from the right arm of a rookie. Spencer Schwellenbach was simply masterful on Monday night, carving up the Mets lineup for seven shutout innings to lead the Braves to a decisive 3-0 victory. The win, which improved Atlanta's record to 41-34, was a perfect blend of dominant young pitching, timely power, and the welcome return of an All-Star.
He’s showing poise beyond his years and giving us a chance to win every time out.
In what is quickly becoming his signature style, Spencer Schwellenbach took the mound and owned it. The rookie right-hander was in complete control, allowing just four hits while striking out eight Mets batters over seven brilliant innings. He never seemed rattled, working out of the few jams he faced with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. This outing lowered his ERA over his last five starts to a sterling 2.98, solidifying his spot in the rotation and making him a legitimate Rookie of the Year contender. It was the kind of performance that wins big games in a tough road environment.
As if a stellar pitching performance wasn't enough, Braves Country also celebrated the return of Sean Murphy. Activated from the injured list before the game, the All-Star catcher immediately slotted back into the lineup, going 1-for-3 with a walk. His presence provides an instant upgrade both offensively and defensively, and his veteran leadership behind the plate is immeasurable. To make room on the roster, the Braves optioned Chadwick Tromp to Triple-A Gwinnett, a testament to the team's returning health and depth.
While Schwellenbach kept the Mets off the board, the offense provided the necessary support. The big blow came from Matt Olson, who broke the scoreless tie in the 6th inning with a towering solo home run. Ronald Acuña Jr. also looked sharp, going 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored, providing a spark from the leadoff spot. The defense was equally impressive, turning two crucial double plays to erase any potential threats and keep the momentum squarely in Atlanta's dugout. Raisel Iglesias calmly shut the door in the ninth for his 18th save.
The good news about young arms wasn't limited to the big league club. Down on the farm, top prospect Hurston Waldrep put on a clinic for the Gwinnett Stripers, striking out 10 batters over six innings of one-run ball. With Schwellenbach excelling in the majors and Waldrep dominating in Triple-A, the future of the Braves' rotation looks incredibly bright. It's a pipeline of power pitching that should have fans excited for years to come.
With Schwellenbach dealing, Murphy back behind the dish, and the offense providing just enough punch, this 3-0 victory felt like more than just one win in June. It was a statement. As the Braves continue this crucial four-game set against a division rival, they carry the momentum of a complete team effort and the exciting promise of their rising stars. The rest of the series just got a lot more interesting.
