The Braves got off to a very strong start as the second half of the season began, sweeping the Mets at Turner Field. The three victories extended Atlanta's winning streak from seven games, which also includes three games against the Phillies and one with the Cubs.
Game one of the series saw Tim Hudson surrender an early lead, but the offense managed to score early and often as the bullpen held off New York as the Braves win by a score of 7-5.
Similar to Hudson, Tommy Hanson was given an early lead and gave it back to the Mets. Atlanta trailed 7-5 in the eighth, but back-to-back-to-back hits from Michael Bourn, Martin Prado and Jason Heyward drove home three runs to take the lead. Craig Kimbrel worked a quick ninth inning to secure a huge 8-7 win.
Sunday's series finale was the Ben Sheets show. The veteran righty worked six shutout innings in his first major league start since 2010, allowing just two hits and a walk. The Braves scored six runs in the sixth inning to lead them to a 6-1 win.
The Braves now sit three games back of the Nationals in the National League East, and they hold a lead of 3.5 over the Mets, seven over the Marlins and 11 over the Phillies. They'll welcome in the San Francisco Giants for a three-game series at Turner Field beginning Tuesday night.
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