This is becoming a disturbing trend for the Atlanta Braves; a mediocre pitcher performance, failing to take advantage of early scoring opportunities, and then not being able to mount a rally against the opposing bullpen.
Tim Hudson struggled yet again on Sunday, allowing six runs on eight hits over six innings of work. The big blow — a Yadier Molina three-run double — essentially ended the game for Atlanta and the fans could just get the sense of deflation once the big inning was over.
The Braves scratched out a few runs against Cardinals starter Jake Westbrook in the sixth inning, which came on an RBI-single from Freddie Freeman and a sacrifice fly from Matt Diaz. Chipper Jones also added a solo-home run in the eighth inning, but that was all the team would mount against St. Louis.
Coming into this week, Atlanta had not been swept once. They were swept twice this week, with the other coming against the Phillies.
Fortunately, the team returns home for a much-needed six-game home stand against the Marlins and Mets. Game one of the Florida series will feature Brandon Beachy against Chris Volstad in a 7:10 tilt.