After taking a tough loss in their first game of their series against the Astros, the Atlanta Braves are sending Kyle Wright to the mound to try and get back on track. The offense has been a bit hit and miss over the last couple of games and to keep up with the dangerous Astros lineup, they are going to need to be more consistent on the offensive side of the ball.
Kyle Wright vs. Framber Valdez Matchup
Things have changed a good bit since Kyle Wright pitched against the Astros in the 2021 World Series for both Wright and the Astros. Wright got a late start to his 2023 season and his first two starts of the season were a bit mixed. After struggling against the Reds, Wright pitched into the sixth inning and struck out six, although he still had some issues with walks.
No Astros have a ton of experience against Wright and those who have faced haven't performed great with the notable exception of Kyle Tucker who is also off to a strong start this season.
For Houston, they are sending Framber Valdez to the mound. Sean Murphy and Matt Olson both have a number of plate appearances against Valdez, but neither have performed great against him, although Olson does at least have a homer in his career off of him.
As for his 2023 season number, Valdez has been excellent. He has not given up more than two earned runs in any start this season and he has gone at least six innings in his last three starts. If you are looking for a silver lining, the Astros haven't exactly given him a ton of run support this year and he struggled late in his last start with his line getting bailed out by some unearned runs.
How to watch the Atlanta Braves on 4/22
Date/Time/Location: 4/22 at 7:20 PM EST at Truist Park
TV: Bally Sports South
Radio: 680 AM/93.7 FM The Fan