Braves Edge Indians in Game 4, Take 3-1 Series Lead

Strategic Insights -

The Atlanta Braves defeated the Cleveland Indians 5-2 in Game 4 of the World Series, taking a 3-1 series lead. David Justice's single in the seventh inning sparked a three-run comeback for the Braves, capping a 0-for-17 slump by Braves left-handed batters against Cleveland's left-handed relief corps. The Braves' victory was marked by impressive pitching performances from starters Steve Avery and Ken Hill, who allowed only six and three hits, respectively. However, the Indians' Manny Ramirez and Paul Sorrento provided a late scare with a home run and double, respectively, in the ninth inning.

Key Takeaways:

  • David Justice's single in the seventh inning sparked the Braves' three-run comeback, ending an 0-for-17 slump by Braves left-handed batters against Cleveland's left-handed relief corps.
  • The Braves' victory marked Steve Avery's fine postseason pitching, allowing only three hits over six innings.
  • Atlanta's Ken Hill held the Indians to one run over six innings, with the Braves' Luis Polonia drawing a walk to open the inning and advancing to second base.
  • Marquis Grissom's walk and Polonia's double made scoring opportunities for the Braves, but Hill was able to get out of the jam.
  • Manny Ramirez and Paul Sorrento provided a late scare for the Indians with a home run and double, respectively, but Pedro Borbon Jr. came on to get the last three outs for the save.
  • Jose Mesa worked three innings in relief to gain the victory for the Indians.
  • Charles Nagy had given the Indians seven solid innings in the cold weather but was sent back out to start the eighth inning, which proved disastrous for the Indians.
  • Paul Assenmacher's intentional walk to Chipper Jones led to Justice's ground ball, which was booted by Carlos Baerga for an error, resulting in a tying run.

Statistics:

  • The Braves have won a major-league record 17 consecutive games on the road, with Greg Maddux leading the team.
  • Of the 39 teams who have led a World Series 3-1, 33 have gone on to win.
  • David Justice's single in the seventh inning capped a three-run inning for the Braves, snapping a 1-1 tie.
  • Manny Ramirez's home run in the ninth inning was one of only six the Indians managed off left-hander Steve Avery and relievers Greg McMichael, Wohlers, and Borbon.
  • Atlanta's left-hander Steve Avery allowed only three hits over six innings, with the Indians managing only six hits overall.

Sources:

  • "David Justice puts Cleveland on death row in World Series" by FRED McMANE, Cleveland, Oct. 25.
  • Cleveland Indians vs. Atlanta Braves Game 4 box score.