Atlanta Braves' Dominant Pitching Corps Sets the Stage for World Series Glory

The Atlanta Braves, propelled by arguably the most talented pitching corps in post-season history, clinched their third pennant in five years with a four-game sweep of the Cincinnati Reds. The Braves' masterful pitching performance, led by ace Greg Maddux, has set the stage for a potential World Series championship, their first since 1957. The team's general manager, John Schuerholz, hailed the franchise's worthiness, stating that it stood on its own merit.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Braves' pitching corps, featuring Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, and Steve Avery, has been hailed as one of the most talented in post-season history.
  • The team's bullpen, led by Mark Wohlers and Alejandro Pena, has been enhanced, playing pivotal roles in the victory over Cincinnati.
  • The Braves' hitters have been prolific, with Mike Devereaux earning the most valuable player of the series award.
  • The team's pitching staff has allowed only five runs in four games, an all-time post-season low in the National League.
  • Starters allowed four runs in 28 innings to a Reds team that finished second in runs scored during the season.
  • Relievers allowed just one run in 11 innings, compared to the Reds' relievers, who allowed 12 runs in the series.
  • The Braves pitched to a minuscule .209 batting average against the Reds, with the team striking out more times (31) than they had hits (28).
  • The Braves' pitching staff did not allow the Reds to hit any home runs in the series, collecting only six extra-base hits.

Statistics:

  • The Braves' pitching staff allowed only 5 runs in 4 games, an all-time post-season low in the National League.
  • Starters allowed an average of 1 run per 7 innings over 28 innings to a Reds team that finished second in runs scored during the season.
  • Relievers allowed just 1 run in 11 innings, an impressive display of bullpen dominance.
  • The Braves pitched to a .209 batting average against the Reds, with 31 strikeouts compared to 28 hits.

Sources:

  • Associated Press (photo of Mark Wohlers and the Braves celebrating league titles)
  • Unattributed original text