A Promising Start
From the first pitch, we hoped the Braves would strike hard, but the Guardians' defense was unyielding. Both teams were off to a sluggish start in the first inning, neither scoring a run. But we got a boost in the second inning when Michael Harris II got on base with an infield single, sparking a series of strategic plays that let us score the first run. Nacho Alvarez Jr. grounded into a fielder's choice, sending Michael Harris II home.Guardians Take the Lead
The Guardians rallied back fiercely in the third inning. They tied the game with a sacrifice fly from Kyle Manzardo which was only made possible by a fielding error by our left fielder Jurickson Profar. Bo Naylor then doubled, driving in another run to give the Guardians the lead. By the end of the fourth, they extended their lead to 4-1, putting us Braves fans on edge.
Turning the Game Around
The fifth inning was pivotal! With errors plaguing the Guardians, allowing Ronald Acuña Jr. and Nick Allen to reach third base, Ozzie Albies singled to left, bringing Acuña Jr. home and closing the gap to 4-3. The real magic, however, happened in the sixth when our very own Jurickson Profar smashed a homer to right field, bringing in Nacho Alvarez Jr. as well. The Braves took the lead at 5-4, and we could finally breathe a sigh of relief!
Holding the Lead
The game's latter innings became a tactical battle, with our relief pitchers stepping up. Despite the Guardians' attempt to mount a comeback, including a tense eighth inning, Braves' pitching squad remained strong. Raisel Iglesias shut the Guardians down in the ninth inning, finishing them off with a strikeout to Nolan Jones, securing our victory.
Closing Thoughts
This game was a true showcase of heart and resilience from the Braves. The initial errors may have shaken us, but we ended the night on a high. With Jurickson Profar and Nick Allen delivering when it mattered most, it’s a testament to the depth and grit of our team. Onward, Braves!
Scoreboard for Braves @ Guardians (August 17th, 2025)
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 2 |
| 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 1 |