The Atlanta Braves enter the weekend needing three crucial wins at home against the Colorado Rockies, aiming to build on their recent success with a strong pitching performance from Bryce Elder in Friday night’s opener. This game highlights Elder’s chance to continue his recent streak of dominance while the Braves seek to maintain momentum after a solid series victory in Milwaukee.

Bryce Elder’s Recent Form Shows Promise

Elder impressed in his last start against the Giants, recording 12 strikeouts over eight nearly flawless innings, delivering one of the finest performances of his career. Though relief pitcher Pierce Johnson gave up a game-winning homer in the ninth inning, preventing Elder’s much-deserved win, the outing reinforced Elder’s value to the team.

Throughout the season, Elder has experienced fluctuations, shifting between the majors and Triple-A Gwinnett. Despite this, his overall statistics remain respectable, with a 4.08 ERA, 4.30 FIP, 3.47 xFIP, a 21% strikeout rate, and a 7% walk rate across 10 starts. Early season home runs were a concern, yet he has limited opponents to just one homer in his last three starts spanning 19⅓ innings. His focus will be on keeping the ball on the ground against the Rockies’ struggling offense.

Colorado Rockies Rely on Veteran German Marquez

The Rockies will counter with veteran German Marquez, who has pitched for Colorado since his rookie season but has battled a difficult year. Marquez enters the game with a disappointing 2-8 record and a 7.00 ERA in 13 starts, though his advanced metrics suggest slightly better performance in the 4.5 to 5 range. The Braves’ offense cruised against Marquez in their previous encounter in late April, scoring seven runs on 11 hits.

Game Time and Viewing Options

The first pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET tonight, with broadcast coverage available through all the usual channels. Fans will hope that Bryce Elder’s dominant pitching performance vs Rockies continues, giving Atlanta the edge needed in this important series.