A five-game win streak is what the Atlanta Braves have accomplished for the first time this season after sweeping the Guardians in Cleveland.
What a pretty great high to return home from.
Now, one might look at this series matchup with the White Sox and think…piece of cake…right?
In hindsight, yes, this should be a winnable matchup, but keep in mind that the Braves have dropped games against the Colorado Rockies a few times this season, who are arguably worse than the White Sox this year.
And Spencer Strider, who is taking the mound tonight, has had a few struggles in his past few games.
Pitching only four innings against the Mets last week and lasting the same against the Brewers just a week before, he’s going to have to find his groove to help the team extend its hot win streak on the defensive side and start this series off on the right note.
With his four-seamer being his more successful source so far in his arsenal (95.6 mph), and his slider following closely behind at 84.1 mph, the command for the strike zone has been the main issue, along with, seemingly, his confidence on the mound.
It’s a bit of a toss-up on what Strider we’re going to see tonight…let’s hope he and the offense can get on the same page and continue where they left off.
Yoendrys Gómez is our opposing pitcher of the night. Currently boasting a 5.56 ERA, it’s still safe to say that this reliever could surprise you.
With only one game and a win as a starter, just last week against the Tigers (5 IP/ 1 H/ 1 ER/ 1 BB/ 7 K), he’s shown a glimpse of dominance that he can produce if given the opportunity, even against a strong team like the Tigers.
The Braves will need to be on alert for Gómez’s seven-pitch arsenal, specifically his fastball (93.4 mph) and his sweeper (81.6 mph).
If the Braves can hit the ground running and bring out the same consistent heavy-hitting bats they showcased in their last few series matchups, they will have another sweep on their hands, and this time, at home.
First pitch is set for 7:15 ET
Game Date/Time: August 18th, 7:15 p.m. EDT
Location: Truist Park, Atlanta, GA
TV: FanDuel Sports Network South and Southeast
Radio: 680 AM / 93.7 FM The Fan
