Braves squeak past Orioles in split-squad Spring Training game
Three runs in the first and second inning was just enough for the Atlanta Braves to get past the Orioles in Saturday's spring training action, 3-2 on the road on Saturday.
Along with the Braves Saturday win over the Twins, Atlanta's spring training record is now 4-3 (more to come there as today was a split squad doubleheader).
Reigning NL Rookie of the Year Michael Harris II hit his first home run of the Spring to open the scoring. One inning later, an Ehire Adrianza double and Eddie Rosario single extended the Braves lead to 3-0.
Spencer Strider put together a solid effort in this first start of Spring, striking out three Orioles and allowing just three hits on the day.
Baltimore starting chipping away in the 4th inning after a Colton Cowser single and a Eddie Rosario error brought home a run. Two innings later, Joey Ortiz dropped an RBI single into right to make it a one-run game.
Both teams created a lot of traffic on the basepath Saturday, each tallying eight hits. The Orioles left 11 men on base, and drew five walks. One could be forgiven if they were reminded of the bullpen collapse from yesterday, but again...this is the pretty much how spring training games often go.
Baltimore had a chance in the bottom of the 9th after Jackson Holliday drew an inning-opening walk, then advanced to second on a passed ball on a strikeout. Anthony Bemboom got on base via a one-out walk to add another base runner, before Rolddy Muñoz shut the door with a strikeout and groundout to end the afternoon.
Noteworthy Stats
-Michael Harris II: 1-3, HR, RBI
-Ehire Adrianza: 1-3, RBI
-Eli White: 1-3
-Travis d'Arnaud: 1-2
What's Next?
Braves will host the Yankees on Sunday at home, with first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m ET.