CLEVELAND (AP) The Atlanta Braves defeated the Cleveland Guardians 2-0 on Friday night thanks to two-hitter Hurston Waldrep’s six scoreless innings and runs scored by Michael Harris II and Nacho Alvarez Jr.
Waldrep (3-0) had his longest outing of the season, giving up two hits, both to Steven Kwan. Daysbel Hernandez and Tyler Kinley followed the right-hander, who walked two and struck out a career-high seven.
The Braves won for the third time in a row because to Raisel Iglesias’ ninth-inning save, his 18th in 23 chances. The Guardians lost to the Yankees by one game for the last American League wild-card slot after being shut out for the twelfth time.
Ozzie Albies scored in the fourth inning after Alvarez drew a bases-loaded walk off Cleveland starter Joey Cantillo (3-3). In the ninth inning against Carlos Hernndez, Harris hit pinch-runner Eli White with a single.
Ronald Acua Jr., a Braves standout, went 0 for 3 with a walk after missing 15 games due to an injury in his right calf. In the fourth inning, the former NL MVP—who had not played since July 30—was also cited for baserunner interference.
In the fourth, a supporter ran onto the field, and Cantillo threw the ball four to Alvarez. To get him out, two security officers and a groundskeeper were needed.
In two games, both starts, Waldrep went 0-1 with a 16.71 ERA in his major league debut with the Braves last season. In his three appearances this season, the 2023 first-round pick has a 1.02 ERA and has allowed two runs in 17 2/3 innings.
LHP Braves In the series’ second game, Joey Wentz (3-3, 5.03 ERA) faces Guardians RHP Slade Cecconi (5-5, 4.11 ERA).
