Max Fried delivered another outstanding performance for the Atlanta Braves as they faced off against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. The Braves’ offense, which had struggled to score runs in recent weeks, finally came alive, providing Fried with the run support he needed to secure a 9-2 victory.
Fried, who has been in exceptional form lately, was perfect through five innings and threw his second complete game of the season, solidifying his status as one of the top pitchers in the league. He finished the game allowing just three hits and two runs (one earned), with nine strikeouts and no walks.
The left-hander’s dominance against the Cubs continued, as his record improved to 6-0 with a 1.18 ERA in six starts against them. Fried made his first MLB start at Wrigley Field in September 2017 and has since developed a fondness for pitching at the historic venue.
Fried’s success can be attributed to his diverse array of pitches and his ability to locate them effectively. He has consistently taken no-hit bids deep into games this season, with three instances of carrying them into the fifth, sixth, or seventh inning.
Braves catcher Travis d’Arnaud praised Fried’s understanding of his delivery and his ability to command his fastball, which opens up opportunities for his off-speed pitches. This combination has been instrumental in Fried’s recent dominant run.
The Braves’ offensive explosion against the Cubs was a welcome sight for manager Brian Snitker, who had seen his team struggle to score runs in previous games. The six-run seventh inning showcased the potential of the Braves’ lineup, with consecutive home runs from Marcell Ozuna and Matt Olson.
Ozuna, who leads the National League in home runs and is tied for the major-league lead in RBIs, has been a driving force behind the Braves’ offense this season. Olson, after a prolonged homerless drought, has found his power stroke again, hitting four home runs in his last 12 games.
The Braves’ victory and offensive outburst provided a much-needed boost for the team, instilling confidence and relaxation among the players. Snitker believes that performances like this can help the team find its rhythm and perform at its best.
Fried’s performance on the mound was a masterclass in efficiency and control. He threw just 105 pitches, with 72 strikes, and now owns two of the nine complete games thrown in the majors this season.
Despite allowing an unearned run in the eighth inning, Fried showed no signs of fatigue as he confidently entered the ninth inning. He retired the side in order, needing just 11 pitches to close out the game.
The Braves’ clubhouse was buzzing with excitement after the game, as Fried’s dominant outing and the team’s offensive explosion brought back memories of their successful 2023 season. The Braves hope to carry this momentum forward and continue their winning ways as the season progresses.