ATLANTA — In a thrilling and rain-soaked contest at Truist Park, the Braves solidified their postseason aspirations with a 6-2 victory over the Dodgers on Friday night. As the Braves continue to battle for a Wild Card spot, it’s evident why veteran Whit Merrifield was so determined to return to the lineup just a week after fracturing a bone in his left foot.
Merrifield, who is 35 years old and keenly aware of the fleeting nature of his playoff opportunities, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “Time’s running out,” Merrifield said, reflecting on the narrow window he has to contribute to a playoff race. “And frankly, I’m 35. I don’t know how many more chances I’ll have to be part of a playoff race. It’s important for me to do what I can for a team that’s in a playoff race.”
Although the Braves’ pursuit of a seventh consecutive National League East title effectively ended two weeks ago, the team remains resilient and continues to chase the postseason. They are currently just one game behind the Mets for the third and final NL Wild Card spot.
“We’re down in the scoreboard watching territory,” Dodgers vs Braves manager Brian Snitker noted. “We can only do what we can do.”
The Braves have had to rely on an unconventional roster as they navigate a season marred by injuries. While last year saw six Braves players heading to the All-Star Game, this year’s roster includes three key contributors who were released by other clubs earlier in the season: Whit Merrifield, Gio Urshela, and Ramón Laureano. Urshela made a significant impact in Friday’s game, driving in a two-run homer during a four-run second inning. It was his first home run since joining the Braves after being released by the Tigers last month.
Adding to the Braves’ offensive surge, Jorge Soler, a 2021 postseason hero, also contributed with a two-run homer off Landon Knack in the second inning. This marked Soler’s fifth home run since his acquisition from the Giants on July 29, and his first homer hit in Atlanta since the trade.
“All those guys we brought in appreciate they got another opportunity, especially with a club like ours,” Snitker remarked, acknowledging the contributions of these newly acquired players.
Braves rookie starter Spencer Schwellenbach continued to impress, limiting the Dodgers to just two runs and four hits over six innings. Schwellenbach effectively stymied Shohei Ohtani, keeping him hitless with a strikeout and two flyouts. Schwellenbach’s performance this season has been exceptional, particularly against the NL’s top teams. He boasts a 1.88 ERA in six starts against the teams currently positioned for the NL’s six playoff spots, including notable performances against the Phillies, Dodgers, Padres, Mets, and a couple of teams he has yet to face.
“This is what I’ve expected of myself,” Schwellenbach said of his breakout season. “I think when this season is all said and done, I’ll be able to look back and see how far I came this year.”
Schwellenbach’s journey has been remarkable, transitioning from High-A Rome to making an impact in the major leagues within a few months. His first full season as a starting pitcher above the high-school level has yielded a respectable 3.73 ERA through 18 career starts.
Similarly, Merrifield’s path this season has been filled with unexpected twists. After being released by the Phillies in July, he found a new opportunity with the Braves following Ozzie Albies’ wrist fracture on July 21. Although Albies is expected to return before the end of the regular season and will exclusively bat right-handed, Merrifield’s versatility and experience have been invaluable to the team.
Despite initially fearing that his fractured foot might require an IL stint, Merrifield received reassuring news from a foot specialist, allowing him to push through the pain. His determination was evident as he legged out an infield single in his first plate appearance and later scored from second base on Michael Harris II’s eighth-inning double.
“If it bothered him, I don’t think he’s going to let you know,” Snitker said, highlighting Merrifield’s grit and commitment.
As the Braves continue their push for the playoffs, the blend of veteran determination and emerging talent underscores their quest for postseason glory.
