Through the first five innings, the Braves bats were asleep in this one. Scott Olsen, who had given the Braves problems earlier this year, was perfect through three innings and had a one hitter working when he entered the 6th. That would very quickly change, as Diory Hernandez knocked a 396 foot home run to ignite a Braves rally that really didn’t stop until the end of the 8th inning.
The Braves went on to score 10 runs over their last three innings, and everyone contributed (Troy Glaus even chipped in with double in the 8th). Martin Prado returned victoriously to the line-up with a 3-5 night, scoring 3 runs and driving in 2. He also contributed in the field playing solid defense at third, making Bobby Cox look very smart for that decision.
Mike Minor was also sharp, striking out 5 while walking two through 6 innings. He also struggled in the 6th, allowing back to back doubles with two outs, but he retired Mench to end the rally. The Braves picked him up in the bottom half with their first four runs of the night to give him his first major league victory.
The Phillies also had to come from behind, and likewise pummeled their opponent, overcoming the San Fransisco Giants with the aid of a 5 run 8th inning. They remain 2.5 back of Atlanta in what should remain a tight playoff race coming down the stretch.
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