The Atlanta Braves completed a week marked by weather delays and injuries, closing out with a victory at the MLB Speedway Classic on Sunday after a rain suspension the night before. The team managed a split in their series, winning two of three games against the Cincinnati Reds while dropping a series to the Kansas City Royals.
Injuries affected key players including Ronald Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley, who both left the lineup with health issues. The Braves also adjusted their bullpen and starting rotation during the week, even though the trade deadline saw only one minor roster move.
Emerging Players and Offense Show Signs of Improvement
Newcomers and team regulars alike contributed positively to the Braves’ hold above .500 this week, a notable feat given the team’s overall struggles this season. Michael Harris II, Ozzie Albies, Drake Baldwin, Marcell Ozuna, and Eli White each recorded productive offensive performances. Notably, Ozuna, White, and Riley each hit two home runs, with White driving in seven runs to pace the team’s scoring.
The offense demonstrated bursts of productivity, scoring over ten runs twice in the span of the week, providing hope for a rebound despite lineup instability.
Pitching Highlights Offer Stability Amid Bullpen Changes
On the mound, Hurston Waldrep impressed with his top outing of the season, delivering 5.2 innings while allowing just one run on Sunday. Relievers Pierce Johnson and Raisel Iglesias remained steady in the bullpen, both retaining their roles after the trade deadline despite expectations they might be moved.
These pitching performances have been critical as the Braves face a demanding schedule, including stretches of multiple games in consecutive days, testing their staff depth.
Player Recognition: Joey Wentz Earns Weekly Honors
The Battery Power Braves Player of the Week honor was awarded to pitcher Joey Wentz, chosen after careful consideration among worthy candidates. Wentz, a left-handed pitcher standing 6’5”, was acquired off waivers from the Minnesota Twins on July 11. Initially viewed as a depth option, Wentz has made a significant impact in his brief tenure back with Atlanta.
Since debuting with the Detroit Tigers in 2022, Wentz faced challenges across more than 100 major league appearances. However, following his return to the Braves, the 27-year-old former first-round pick has shown signs of resurgence.
Wentz’s Dominant Performance Against the Royals
In his fourth appearance and third start for Atlanta, Wentz delivered what might be his career-best outing. Facing a Royals lineup that had scored 16 runs in previous games against Atlanta, he limited them to only one hit over 6.2 innings, striking out seven batters. Despite his strong pitching, the Braves’ offense was held scoreless, and the team eventually lost in extra innings.
This start tied Wentz’s career-long outing, dating back to September 2022, and represented 95 pitched throws. His cutter was particularly effective, used 43 times and generating 13 missed swings by Kansas City batters. Since joining Atlanta, Wentz has allowed only three runs in 18 innings, recording 21 strikeouts total.
Looking Ahead: Potential Turning Point for Wentz and the Braves
Questions remain whether this stretch of success marks a new phase for Wentz or is a brief peak before reverting to past struggles seen with other teams. The Braves, having once drafted Wentz 40th overall in 2016, may have uncovered renewed promise in the left-hander.
His recent performances bring optimism to a team navigating injuries and inconsistent results, making him a key figure as Atlanta seeks stability on the mound during the critical second half of the season.
“White, who was pressed into service when Acuña, Jr. landed on the IL with a calf strain, powered the Braves to victory at Bristol Motor Speedway.” —Battery Power Braves report
“Wentz tossed 95 pitches, using his cutter 43 times against Kansas City while getting 13 whiffs from Royals batters.” —Game analysis