The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres started a 4-game series in Atlanta Monday evening.
The Atlanta Braves coming off a slugfest Sunday were able to win a pitching duel against the Padres 3-1.
Let’s take a look at three key moments that helped decide the result of the game.
1. San Diego Padres Defense
The Padres, who entered the game with only 16 errors in 28 games, committed three in this game. And more importantly for the Atlanta Braves sake, they committed them at terrible times.
Two of the three errors come on the same play where Braves pitcher Mike Soroka tried to sacrifice bunt and it all went downhill for the Friars from there.
Eric Hosmer tried to throw out lead runner Johan Camargo at 2nd but Padres Shortstop Greg Garcia did not react to the throw, which led to center fielder Manuel Margot completely missing the ball in center field allowing Camargo to score and Soroka to advance to third on the play.
This was ultimately the play that decided the game as the Braves grabbed the lead on Ozzie Albies single in the following at bat and they never looked back from there.
As mentioned above, the Padres are right in the middle on most team defensive stats and ratings, so it was a tad bit surprising to see them throw the ball around and miss a couple routine plays, but I’m sure I speak for every Atlanta Braves’ fans when I say we will gladly take it and win at any cost.