Ronald Acuña Jr. had to leave the game on Sunday because he tore a ligament in his left knee. Despite this setback, the Braves managed to win with strong pitching from Chris Sale.
Acuña made a good start with a hit but injured himself while trying to steal a base. He had to be treated on the field before walking off.
Initially, the team thought it was just a knee soreness, but later tests showed it was a serious tear that needs surgery, ending his season. Jarred Kelenic replaced Acuña and performed well. He’s a 26-year-old player with decent stats this season.
Chris Sale pitched excellently, striking out eight batters and allowing only one run in seven innings. He’s been getting back to his old form after some injury setbacks. Matt Olson contributed to the win with a home run and three RBIs, helping Atlanta win the last game of the series.
Pérez gave up one run and four hits in three innings before leaving the game due to a left groin injury. He got checked after Kelenic singled in the third inning, then allowed a double that tied the score.
The Pirates also had to deal with catcher Joey Bart’s left thumb injury, causing him to be replaced by Yasmani Grandal after the first inning.
Pirates manager Derek Shelton found the series of injuries in the early innings unusual and concerning, especially Acuña’s injury, which he didn’t see happen.
Shelton mentioned he’ll have more updates on Pérez and Bart the next day. Grandal’s RBI single put Pittsburgh ahead in the second inning.
Atlanta’s Travis d’Arnaud doubled and scored on a sacrifice fly in the fourth, and Olson added a two-run double in the fifth to extend the Braves’ lead to 4-1.
In the eighth inning, Olson hit a long home run into the Allegheny River, and Duvall followed with another home run, giving the Braves a comfortable lead.
Atlanta manager Brian Snitker was pleased with the offensive breakout and praised Olson and Kelenic for their performances.
