Austin Riley had a big game, getting three hits, including an RBI single in the ninth inning, as the Atlanta Braves secured a 6-1 win over the Houston Astros on Monday night.
Orlando Arcia and Marcell Ozuna also contributed RBI singles in the ninth inning, breaking open what had been a close 2-1 game.
The Braves’ rally in the ninth started with Adam Duvall drawing a leadoff walk and then advancing to second base on a wild pitch. Arcia followed with a single to bring in a run. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies added singles before Riley’s RBI single. The Astros pitcher, Josh Hader, was replaced after striking out Matt Olson.
Ozuna added another RBI single, and Michael Harris II drove in a run with a fielder’s choice, extending the Braves’ lead to 6-1.
“That was a significant moment against one of the toughest closers in the game,” Harris commented. “It gives us confidence and shows we can compete against anyone. We believe in our hitting lineup from top to bottom, so it was a boost of confidence against a tough opponent like Hader.”
Hader, who allowed four runs, has struggled this season with a 9.39 ERA in his first season with the Astros, despite signing a lucrative contract earlier in the year.
Houston got on the board first with Alex Bregman hitting an RBI single in the first inning, but the Braves responded with two runs in the second inning. Travis d’Arnaud scored on an errant throw by shortstop Jeremy Peña, and Albies was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded.
Atlanta’s rookie pitcher, Darius Vines, had a solid outing, allowing just one run and four hits with four strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings. It was his third start in the majors and his first appearance this season.
“Anytime I can give this team a chance to win, that’s what we are trying to do,” Vines said. Braves manager Brian Snitker praised Vines’ performance, saying it was “really good.” Aaron Bummer earned the win for the Braves, pitching two outs in relief.
Houston’s Spencer Arrighetti took the loss, giving up two runs and four hits with five strikeouts over four innings. He showed improvement from his previous start against the Royals.
