The Atlanta Braves continued their strong performance with a 3-0 shutout victory over the Kansas City Royals on September 27, 2024, at Truist Park. This win marked the Braves' fourth consecutive victory and brought them closer to securing a postseason spot.
The game saw a stellar performance from Braves pitcher Max Fried, who came close to a complete game shutout. Fried's outing was highlighted by his precise pitching, including a 'front door two-seam fastball' that showcased his skill. The Braves' win was also aided by a two-run home run from Sean Murphy in the fourth inning, which proved decisive in the low-scoring game.
Injury Updates
Both teams are dealing with several injuries as they approach the end of the season. For the Braves, key players like Austin Riley (hand), Ronald Acuña Jr. (knee), and Spencer Strider (elbow) are on the injured list. Additionally, Reynaldo López, who was scheduled to start for the Braves on September 28, is on the 15-day injured list with a shoulder injury.
The Royals are also facing significant injuries, with Vinnie Pasquantino (thumb) and James McArthur (elbow) on the 10-day and 15-day injured lists, respectively. Other notable injuries for the Royals include Hunter Harvey (back), Chris Stratton (forearm), and Will Smith (back).
Game Details and Predictions
The September 28 game between the Braves and Royals saw Reynaldo López scheduled to start for Atlanta, despite his recent injury, while Seth Lugo took the mound for Kansas City. The Braves were favored with odds of -226, while the Royals were underdogs at +190. The predicted score was Braves 4, Royals 3, with a total prediction of under 7.5 runs.
The Royals, led by Bobby Witt Jr. with a .332 batting average, have shown strong bat-to-ball skills this season, ranking seventh in MLB with a .249 team batting average. However, they face a tough challenge against the Braves, who have won 73 of the 126 games they were favored on the moneyline this season.
Postseason Implications
The Braves' recent wins have significant postseason implications, as they trail the Mets and the Diamondbacks by just one game. The Royals, with a magic number of one, are also in a critical phase of their season. These games are crucial for both teams as they strive to secure their places in the playoffs.
