Braves Sweep Mets Behind Bullpen’s Strong Showing
Ummm…yeah, this article missed the mark. Kenley Jansen, and the rest of Atlanta’s bullpen, proved a key part of the Braves sweep of the New York Mets this weekend. Brian Snitker‘s job of managing the in playoffs has to feel easier seeing Jansen regain his form. He struggled in the first game of the series, loading bases with one out, before striking out the last two hitters. His last two nights, both clean saves, prove he deserves to remain Atlanta’s closer.
The entire bullpen stepped up against New York. Braves starters pitched just 15.1 innings against the Mets. In 11.2 innings Jackson Stevens, Dylan Lee, Raisel Iglesias, AJ Minter, and yes, Jansen surrendered just one run on five hits to New York. Picking up an ill Max Fried, a not so sharp Kyle Wright, and a struggling Charlie Morton, Atlanta’s relievers showed that they still are some of the best in MLB. If the Braves repeat as World Series champions the bullpen again will be a key reason why.
Braves Key Power Bats Come Alive At Perfect Time
Braves Outslug Mets In Key Moments Of Series Sweep
Atlanta out-homered New York seven to three in the series. Dansby Swanson hit three huge home runs, including the go ahead shot Friday. Matt Olson also found his power swing again after a long slump. The long ball proved to be a key part of Atlanta’s offense, just as it has been all season long.
The Mets depth of power in their line up proved to be an issue for them. Outside of Sunday’s game New York was forced to string together two to three hits to score a run. They scored just seven runs on 27 hits in the three games. Atlanta scored 14 runs on 24 hits, 11 for extra bases. When the Braves offense looks as if it cannot get anything going someone in its lineup has shown the capability of hitting one out, energizing the team.
Braves On Verge Of Fifth Straight NL East Title
Sunday’s win over New York proved the most important of the entire series for Atlanta. The Braves sweep means that they won the season series as well, 10-9. One win against the Miami Marlins and the team clinches its fifth straight NL East title.
The main reason winning the NL East matters is it gives two key Braves, Ozzie Albies and Spencer Strider, more to time to get healthy. Both will be needed for the team to make a deep run. A healthy Strider can help avoid situations like this weekend where the bullpen had to do so much heavy lifting. If Atlanta does win tomorrow, or the Mets lose, then the amazing comeback from 10.5 games down to New York in June will truly be a reason for the team to celebrate.
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