Atlanta Braves fall to Cincinnati Reds 1-4 as Mike Minor gives up four home runs - MLB Update
Mike Minor continues his poor run of form as starter and the Atlanta Braves face 1-4 defeat against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio in first game of the four match series on May 21, 2012.
An offence which is ruling the National League East Division had tough time on Monday. As the Braves just managed two hits in 30 at-bats, it was a stark exception in the number of games they have played so far in the season.
Third-baseman Chipper Jones sat out again, owing to issues with left calf. His absence was felt thoroughly as let alone hitting any home run by the Braves, only one RBI came about.
In this connection, Jones will have made huge difference in the game, had he played.
Ever since Jones has returned to the season after recovering from injury, he has been irregular. The surgery he had has left effects on his body, disallowing him to maintain composure on the plate.
Despite the fact his batting average and slugging percentage remain impressive, one can go slow in believing that he will play every game left in the season ahead.
Surprisingly, the batters who have been finding clean connections in the season went hitless on Monday.
Catcher Brian McCann wasted three at-bats, while drawing one walk. Similarly, left fielder Martin Prado who has managed a .481 slugging percentage in the season did not make any hit.
What hurt the Braves most was four home runs starter Minor gave up. The Reds relied entirely on home runs for registering their victory.
Six innings that Minor threw went for five hits as he struck-out four and walked four.
While starter was mediocre, relievers were perfect. As has been the case throughout most part of the season, their bullpen did its part even against a rough up of their starter.
The way Livan Hernandez and Kris Medlen threw scoreless seventh and eighth, a notion that the Braves possess one of the best bullpens in their Division is reinforced.
As it is a four game series, the Braves still have ample room for winning couple of matches and asserting dominance upon the Reds.
They will be looking forward to witness improved performance from their starting pitcher in upcoming games.
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