The Atlanta Braves got a taste of their own medicine on Saturday afternoon as the Cubs scored 5 runs in the first inning en route to an 8-6 win over the Bravos.
Atlanta struggled early to get any offense going but eventually fought their way back within two runs in the top of the ninth. Unfortunately, they just fell short of coming back and at least tying the game.
Charlie Morton hopes to change all of that on Sunday afternoon and lead the Braves to a series win over the Cubbies. Morton is 10-9 on the year with a 3.62 ERA through 119.1 innings pitched.
His most recent start came against the Angels at Truist Park where he completed 6 innings allowing 3 runs on 6 hits with 3 walks and 8 strikeouts. Walks have been a bit of an issue for Morton this season and it hasn't always been smooth sailing. However, for the most part, Charlie has been a dependable piece of this starting rotation.
Morton will face off with Justin Steele who is a right-hander for the Cubs. Stelle is 12-3 on the year and carries a 2.65 ERA through 115.2 innings. His last start came against the Reds and saw him allow 4 runs on 9 hits with no walks and 6 strikeouts.
Steele usually lasts about 5 or 6 innings for the Cubs and has been impressive in almost every start. Atlanta will definitely have their hands full but as we saw in game one of the series, things can escalate in a heartbeat.
The Atlanta offense has found its stroke after struggling a bit after the All-Star break. Michael Harris II, Austin Riley, and Matt Olson specifically have been surging as of late. They'll hope to continue that success and propel the team to a win on Sunday.