ATL ReKap: Braves Wrap Up Spring Training, Hawks Secure Commanding Victory

Good evening, everyone, and welcome back to another edition of ATL ReKap! I hope you're all enjoying a wonderful Wednesday evening and are gearing up for an exciting week ahead, especially with Opening Day just around the corner. So, let's dive straight into the action!

Atlanta Braves

Yesterday, the Braves wrapped up their 2024 Spring Training with a matchup against the Minnesota Twins, unfortunately falling short with a final score of 9-6. Samuel Strickland took the mound for the Braves, pitching an inning and conceding two hits and two runs while striking out one.

The Braves initiated their offensive onslaught in the third inning, highlighted by a powerful home run from newly acquired left fielder, Jared Kelenic, marking his first homer as a Brave. In the fourth inning, center fielder Michael Harris II doubled on a line drive to center field, bringing home Nick Ward. Following suit, catcher Sean Murphy singled on a line drive to right field, driving in Cade Bunnell and Kevin Kilpatrick Jr. Closing out the scoring for the Braves in the fourth, shortstop Orlando Arcia launched a rocket to left field, bringing home Murphy.

In total, the Braves amassed nine hits, with Ozzie Albies, Geraldo Quintero, Matt Olson, Yolbert Sanchez, Carlos Arroyo, Harris, Murphy, Arcia, and Kelenic each contributing one hit. The Braves displayed disciplined batting, drawing six walks while only striking out once.

On the pitching front, the Braves conceded 12 hits and nine runs while striking out a total of eight batters.

As Spring Training comes to a close, the Braves are gearing up to face the Philadelphia Phillies in their season opener on Friday afternoon at 3:05. Originally scheduled for Thursday, the game was unfortunately postponed due to inclement weather. Spencer Strider is set to take the mound as the Braves' Opening Day pitcher, squaring off against the Phillies' own Zach Wheeler in a highly anticipated rematch of the last two NLDS matchups.

Be sure to join me after Friday's game for a comprehensive recap of the action!

Atlanta Hawks

Switching gears to the Hawks, Atlanta faced the Portland Trail Blazers, clinching a commanding 120-105 victory led by Dejounte Murray's stellar performance. Murray erupted for 30 points on an impressive 13-20 shooting from the field, including 4-8 from beyond the arc. This standout performance showcased Murray at his best, displaying improved shooting percentages while maintaining remarkable consistency throughout the game. His all-around contribution included three rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and two blocks, with one particularly emphatic block stealing the spotlight.

Following Murray's lead, Bogdan Bogdanovich contributed 16 points, shooting 7-16 from the field and 2-7 from three-point range. Bogi's invaluable presence in the lineup was evident once again, demonstrating his versatility and impact on both ends of the court. He rounded off his performance with four rebounds, five assists, and three steals.

De’Andre Hunter and Clint Capela both chipped in 13 points, combining for 15 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, and 3 blocks, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive contributions.

Off the bench, Garrison Matthews dazzled with a total of 21 points, shooting 5-11 from the field and an impressive 5-9 from beyond the arc. Matthews' breakout performance was a highlight of the game, demonstrating his scoring ability and potential impact on the team. Dylan Windler also made significant contributions, adding 11 points with a hot shooting hand, going 4-6 from the field and 3-5 from beyond the arc.

With half of the lineup sidelined due to injuries, seeing young prospects like Windler step up is a promising sight for the Hawks. Despite the odds, the Hawks are gearing up for a rematch with the Boston Celtics tomorrow evening at 7:30. While ESPN projects a 90% chance of victory for the Celtics, the Hawks have proven that anything is possible, as evidenced by their previous comeback victory against the odds. Join me after the game for a recap, and let's hope for some positive news to share with all of you.

As we conclude this blog, I extend warm wishes to each of you for a fantastic evening. Let's continue to embrace positivity and share love with our families and loved ones – they truly deserve it!