AUSTIN RILEY

The Atlanta Braves' bid to repeat as World Series champions is over after they were eliminated in the NL Division Series.

Kyle Wright threw six brilliant innings to outduel Zack Wheeler, and the Atlanta Braves evened their NL Division Series at one game apiece with a 3-0 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Philadelphia Phillies reliever David Robertson will miss the NL Division Series after injuring his right calf jumping to celebrate Bryce Harper’s home run in their clinching wild-card victory at St. Louis.

ATLANTA — (AP) — The Atlanta Braves made another investment in their future by signing rookie right-hander Spencer Strider to a $75 million, six-year contract on Monday. Strider's contract includes a $22 million club option for 2029 with a $5 million buyout. He will earn $1 million per season in 2023 and 2024, $4 million in 2025, $20 million in 2026, and $22 million per season in 2027-2028. The deal with Harris runs through the 2030 season and includes a $15 million team option for 2031 and a $20 million team option for 2032. If both option years are activated, the total value of the contract would be $102 million over 10 years.

The Atlanta Braves made another investment in their future by signing rookie right-hander Spencer Strider to a $75 million, six-year contract.

Don Mattingly went out as a winner in his final game as Miami’s manager when rookie Peyton Burdick homered and drove in four runs to lead the Marlins over the NL East champion Atlanta Braves 12-9.

MIAMI — (AP) — Their sluggish start now far behind them, Ronald Acuña Jr. and the World Series champion Atlanta Braves needed just one more win to complete a most stunning turnaround. They earned it Tuesday night, beating the Miami Marlins 2-1 to take their fifth straight NL East title and finish the first leg of a trek they hope leads them to another crown. With the win, Atlanta earned a first-round bye as the No. “We tried to throw our best guys out there today and extend this thing," Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. The Braves did not score off it, even after the Marlins intentionally walked Acuña in the next at bat to load the bases.

William Contreras drove in the go-ahead run in the fifth, and the Atlanta Braves clinched their fifth consecutive NL East title by defeating the Miami Marlins 2-1.

With the baseball postseason expanding to 12 teams this year, if two teams end up deadlocked for a division title or playoff spot, there will no longer be a one-game playoff to break those ties.

Dansby Swanson and Matt Olson homered for the third straight game, Travis d’Arnaud hit a go-ahead two-run single in the third inning, and Atlanta Braves beat the New York Mets 5-3, completing a three-game sweep of their NL East rival and taking a two-game lead in the division with three games to play.

ATLANTA — (AP) — Dansby Swanson and Matt Olson homered off Max Scherzer, lifting the Atlanta Braves to a crucial 4-2 victory Saturday night over the New York Mets and a one-game lead in the NL East. The defending World Series champions beat aces Jacob deGrom and Scherzer on consecutive nights to take their biggest lead of the season in the division. Even though both teams are headed to the postseason, that’s important because the NL East champion gets a first-round bye in the playoffs. Wright will become the first Braves pitcher since Hall of Famer Tom Glavine in 2000 to lead the majors in wins. The Braves, who got homers from Riley, Olson and Swanson off deGrom on Friday, lead the NL with 240 homers.

Dansby Swanson and Matt Olson homered off Max Scherzer, lifting the Atlanta Braves to a crucial 4-2 victory over the New York Mets and a one-game lead in the NL East.

ATLANTA — (AP) — Austin Riley and Matt Olson hit back-to-back homers off Jacob deGrom in the second inning and Dansby Swanson later connected off the Mets ace as the Atlanta Braves beat New York 5-2 Friday night to move into a tie for the NL East lead. Atlanta, going for its fifth straight NL East title, has won eight of the 17 games in the season series. Riley and Olson became the first players to hit back-to-back homers off deGrom (5-4) since Freddie Freeman and Josh Donaldson did it for the Braves on June 18, 2019. That game was also the last time deGrom allowed two homers in the same inning. At that point, deGrom had given up 13 earned runs and five homers in 17 innings over his last four starts.

Austin Riley and Matt Olson hit back-to-back homers off Jacob deGrom in the second inning and Dansby Swanson later connected off the Mets ace as the Atlanta Braves beat New York 5-2 to move into a tie for the NL East lead.

Matt Olson hit a three-run homer against his former club and the Atlanta Braves won their sixth in a row, outslugging the Oakland Athletics 10-9 and finally catching the slumping Mets atop the NL East.

Rookie Spencer Strider set an Atlanta record with 16 strikeouts while allowing only two hits in eight innings to lead the Braves to a 3-0 win over the Colorado Rockies.

ATLANTA — (AP) — Kyle Wright pitched seven scoreless innings to earn his major league-leading 17th victory, Austin Riley and Ronald Acuña Jr. homered, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Colorado Rockies 3-2 on Wednesday night. Atlanta, with the NL’s third-best record at 80-51, remained three games behind the New York Mets in the East Division. Hall of Famer Tom Glavine was the last Atlanta pitcher to lead the majors in victories with 21 in 2000. Riley’s 32nd homer, an opposite-field, two-run shot to right-center off Ryan Feltner (2-6), put the Braves up 2-0 in the first. Prior to Atlanta’s four-game sweep June 2-5 at Coors Field, the Rockies had won 30 of 42 games against the Braves.

Kyle Wright pitched seven scoreless innings to earn his major league-leading 17th victory, Austin Riley and Ronald Acuña Jr. homered, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Colorado Rockies 3-2.

Brett Baty homered his first time up in the big leagues, Starling Marte went deep twice and the New York Mets held off the Braves 9-7 to snap Atlanta’s eight-game winning streak.

Hey, Braves fans, hope you like the core of your team.

The Atlanta Braves have signed rookie outfielder Michael Harris II to a $72 million, eight-year contract to remain with his hometown team.

Max Scherzer tied a season high with 11 strikeouts over seven innings and the New York Mets beat the sloppy Atlanta Braves 6-2 to complete a doubleheader sweep.

Mets Nationals Baseball Washington Nationals' Juan Soto acknowledges the New York Mets dugout as he steps in the batter's box during the first inning of a baseball game at Nationals Park, Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) (Alex Brandon)A look at what’s happening around the majors today:___DEADLINE DAYThe Juan Soto sweepstakes come down to the wire, with baseball's 6 p.m. EDT trade deadline fast approaching. WELCOME BACKNew York Mets ace Jacob deGrom finally returns from a string of injuries to make his season debut in Washington. The 40-year-old Molina, sidelined since June 16 with knee inflammation, has played only 38 games in his final major league season. Riley is hitting .301 with 29 home runs, 68 RBIs and a .964 OPS in 101 games this season.

The Juan Soto sweepstakes come down to the wire, with baseball’s trade deadline fast approaching at 6 p.m. EDT.

Diamondbacks Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley runs to first on a game winning RBI during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Sunday, July 31, 2022, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Butch Dill) (Butch Dill)ATLANTA — (AP) — All-Star third baseman Austin Riley and the Atlanta Braves agreed Monday to a $212 million, 10-year contract that starts in 2023, the most lucrative deal in team history and a surprise given he had three additional seasons under club control. He will make $15 million in 2023, $21 million in 2024, and $22 million in each remaining year of the deal. Riley will donate 1% of his salary annually to the Atlanta Braves Foundation. After failing to re-sign Freeman, the Braves acquired Olson from Oakland and signed him to a $168 million deal for eight years.

All-Star third baseman Austin Riley and the Atlanta Braves agreed to a $212 million, 10-year contract, the most lucrative deal in team history and a surprise given he had three additional seasons under club control.

PLAYERS IN PHOTOS Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley runs to first in the third inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Friday, July 29, 2022, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brett Davis)The Atlanta Braves announced on Monday that they've signed third baseman Austin Riley to a 10-year, $212 million contract that runs through 2032. He's currently playing on a one-year, $3.95 million deal and was previously eligible for arbitration through 2025. All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies is signed to a seven-year, $35 million contract through 2027. Olson notably joined the Braves and signed his contract after Atlanta failed to come to terms with Freddie Freeman in the offseason.

PHILADELPHIA — (AP) — Bryson Stott homered, doubled and drove in five runs to lift the Philadelphia Phillies to a 6-4 comeback victory over the Atlanta Braves on Monday night. “It’s huge after losing three to the Cubs being able to come back today and pull that one out,” Stott said. “We’ll put this behind us and come out and win a game tomorrow,” manager Brian Snitker said. Stott then drove a full-count cutter into the seats in right field for his seventh home run, putting the Phillies ahead 6-4. “It’s a huge win altogether,” Phillies interim manager Rob Thomson said.

Bryson Stott homered, doubled and drove in five runs to lift the Philadelphia Phillies to a 6-4 comeback victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Giancarlo Stanton and Byron Buxton homered back-to-back in the fourth inning to rally the American League over the National League 3-2 in the All-Star Game.

White Sox Guardians Baseball Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Liam Hendriks reacts after striking out Cleveland Guardians' Nolan Jones during the ninth inning of a baseball game Wednesday, July 13, 2022, in Cleveland. The White Sox won 2-1. (AP Photo/David Dermer) (David Dermer)NEW YORK — (AP) — Houston's Justin Verlander, the Yankees' Gerrit Cole and Atlanta's Max Fried won't be active for the All-Star Game after weekend starts. Relievers Liam Hendriks of the Chicago White Sox, Jordan Romano of Toronto and Devin Williams of Milwaukee replaced them on the active rosters for Tuesday's game at Dodger Stadium, Major League Baseball said Sunday. About a dozen players have changed from the original rosters announced July 6 and 8.

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout will miss the All-Star Game because of back spasms, joining Bryce Harper on the sidelines and depriving the showcase of two of baseball’s best-known players.

(AP Photo/Ron Schwane) (Ron Schwane)Houston second baseman Jose Altuve, San Francisco Giants pitcher Carlos Rodón and St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado won’t be playing in Tuesday’s All-Star Game. Altuve, an eight-time All-Star who was selected as a starter in fan voting, was struck on the left knee leading off Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. MLB announced Saturday that Altuve is being replaced in the starting lineup by Cleveland’s Andrés Giménez, who is making his first appearance. It wasn't immediately clear why Rodón isn't playing in the All-Star Game; he was originally added to the roster on July 12 in place of Milwaukee closer Josh Hader. Arenado, a seven-time All-Star, said Saturday that he's had lower back soreness for three to four weeks, that MRIs found nothing and that he'll take the All-Star break to rest.

(AP Photo/Ron Schwane) (Ron Schwane)Houston second baseman Jose Altuve, San Francisco Giants pitcher Carlos Rodon and St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado won’t be playing in Tuesday’s All-Star Game. Altuve, an eight-time All-Star who was selected as a starter in fan voting, was struck on the left knee leading off Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. Dodgers pitcher Tyler Anderson is taking the place of Rodon on the NL roster, LA said in a news release. It wasn't immediately clear why Rodon isn't playing in the All-Star Game. Arenado, a seven-time All-Star, said Saturday that he's had lower back soreness for three to four weeks, that MRIs found nothing and that he'll take the All-Star break to rest.

Max Scherzer pitched seven strong innings, Luis Guillorme homered and drove in two runs, and the New York Mets beat Max Fried and the Atlanta Braves 4-1 in the opening game of their National League East showdown.

Trea Turner had three hits, including a home run, Freddie Freeman reached base three times in his emotional return to Atlanta and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Braves 4-1.

Pitcher Max Fried won his salary arbitration case against the World Series champion Atlanta Braves and was given his $6.85 million request instead of the team’s $6.6 million offer.

Pitcher Max Fried became the fifth member of the World Series champion Atlanta Braves to go to salary arbitration, asking for $6.85 million while the team argued for $6.6 million.

Willson Contreras had three hits and stole a base in his first game against younger brother William, helping the Chicago Cubs beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3.

Kansas City infielder Nicky Lopez lost his salary arbitration case with the Royals on Friday and will get $2.55 million instead of his $2.9 million request, a decision that clinched management’s third straight winning record.

Braves Nationals Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley is congratulated for his two-run home run against the Washington Nationals during the seventh inning of a baseball game Wednesday, June 15, 2022, in Washington. They'll try to match the mark when they play at Wrigley Field against the Chicago Cubs, who have lost 10 in a row. Charlie Morton (4-3, 5.67 ERA) pitches the opener of the three-game series in Chicago. The Cubs, meanwhile, have their longest losing streak since dropping 12 straight last August. Ramírez and the Guardians open a weekend series at Dodger Stadium against lefty ace Clayton Kershaw (4-1, 2.12 ERA).

Austin Riley and the Atlanta Braves aim for their 15th straight win, which would tie for the longest streak in franchise history in the post-1900 era.

Braves Nationals Baseball Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Spencer Strider throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Wednesday, June 15, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) (Nick Wass)WASHINGTON — (AP) — Austin Riley homered twice, rookie Spencer Strider allowed one hit over 5 2/3 innings, and the Atlanta Braves won their 14th straight game, 8-2 over the last-place Washington Nationals on Wednesday night. Riley, who also had a single, hit two-run blasts in the seventh and eighth innings, giving him 18 homers this year. With the Braves leading 1-0 in the fourth, Michael Harris II extended his hitting streak to eight games with a two-run single. Corbin, seeking his third straight win, is 3-3 with a 4.05 ERA in 10 starts versus the Phillies since joining Washington in 2019.

Austin Riley homered twice and the Atlanta Braves won their 14th straight game, beating the Washington Nationals 8-2.

Pirates Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Ozzie Albies (1) hit a grand slam to center right center field which also scored Dansby Swanson, Austin Riley and Matt Olson in the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Saturday, June 11, 2022, in Atlanta. This marks just the third time since divisional play started in 1969 that two teams began a day with winning streaks of nine games. The World Series champion Braves are on their longest winning streak since they took 14 in a row in 2013. Kyle Wright (6-3, 2.39 ERA) starts for Atlanta against José Quintana (1-3, 3.19) and the Pirates. The Padres won the opener 2-1 in 10 innings.

Pirates Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Ozzie Albies (1) hit a grand slam to center right center field which also scored Dansby Swanson, Austin Riley and Matt Olson in the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Saturday, June 11, 2022, in Atlanta. This marks just the third time since divisional play started in 1969 that two teams began a day with winning streaks of nine games. The World Series champion Braves are on their longest winning streak since they took 14 in a row in 2013. Kyle Wright (6-3, 2.39 ERA) starts for Atlanta against José Quintana (1-3, 3.19) and the Pirates. The Padres won the opener 2-1 in 10 innings.

Ozzie Albies and the Atlanta Braves have won 10 straight going into their home game Sunday against Pittsburgh while rookie Bryson Stott and the Phillies have a nine-game winning streak as they host Arizona.

Pirates Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Ozzie Albies (1) hit a grand slam to center right center field which also scored Dansby Swanson, Austin Riley and Matt Olson in the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Saturday, June 11, 2022, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Hakim Wright Sr.) (Harkim Wright Sr.)ATLANTA — (AP) — Dansby Swanson blooped a three-run single, Ozzie Albies added a grand slam in an eight-run seventh inning and the Atlanta Braves beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 10-4 Saturday for their 10th consecutive win. Albies’ fifth career slam put the Braves ahead 10-4. FIRST TIMEMorton faced Pittsburgh, the team he pitched for from 2009-15, for the first time in 303 career starts. Quintana is 2-1 with an 8.68 ERA in four career starts against Atlanta.

Dansby Swanson blooped a three-run single, Ozzie Albies added a grand slam in an eight-run seventh inning and the Atlanta Braves beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 10-4 for their 10th consecutive win.

Outfielder Adam Duvall and the Atlanta Braves argued their case as salary arbitration hearings resumed after a two-week break.

Dansby Swanson scored the tiebreaking run in the fifth inning on an excruciating defensive sequence by the Phillies, and the Atlanta Braves beat Philadelphia 8-4.

Atlanta Braves reliever Luke Jackson has lost his salary arbitration case.

Keston Hiura hit a two-run, winning homer off Jesse Chavez in the 11th inning as the Milwaukee Brewers rallied from a four-run deficit to beat the Atlanta Braves 7-6.

Ha-Seong Kim had a run-scoring double to give San Diego the lead in a four-run 11th inning and the Padres beat the Atlanta Braves 7-3.

Marcell Ozuna homered and Austin Riley hit a tiebreaking double during a four-run rally in the eighth inning that lifted the Atlanta Braves to a 6-5 victory over the San Diego Padres.

Adam Frazier and the Seattle Mariners argued the first of this year’s delayed salary arbitration cases, with the second baseman/outfielder asking for a raise from $4.3 million to $8 million and the team arguing for $6.7 million.

Ronald Acuña Jr. went 1 for 5 with two stolen bases in his return to the Braves lineup, but it was Kyle Wright who claimed a starring role, pitching three-hit ball over a career-high seven innings to give Atlanta a 5-1 win over the Cubs.

Tony Gonsolin tossed six shutout innings and Freddie Freeman hit a two-run homer in the first to give the Los Angeles Dodgers a 5-1 win over the Atlanta Braves.

Braves Dodgers Baseball Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Max Fried throws to the plate during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Tuesday, April 19, 2022, in Los Angeles. Kenley Jansen, the Dodgers’ longtime closer, picked up his third save of the season for the Braves with a perfect ninth. Los Angeles starter Walker Buehler (1-1) gave up three runs and eight hits in five innings, losing the matchup of dueling aces. Two of Morton’s four regular-season starts against Los Angeles came last season, when he went 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA. Dodgers: RHP Tony Gonsolin (0-0, 1.29) starts a rare afternoon midweek game at Dodger Stadium.

Max Fried looked right at home, opening with five perfect innings while pitching the Atlanta Braves to a 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Hunter Greene won his major league debut, Kyle Farmer hit a two-run single in a five-run third inning and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3.

New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge and five players from the World Series champion Atlanta Braves are among the players who are headed toward salary arbitration hearings that will occur during the regular season after failing to agree to contracts for 2022.

Atlanta first baseman Freddie Freeman’s future is the most pressing offseason issue facing the Braves, who beat the Houston Astros to cap an improbable run to their first World Series title since 1995.

The Braves hammered the Houston Astros 7-0 Tuesday night.

The Atlanta Braves have won their first World Series championship since 1995, hammering the Houston Astros 7-0 in Game 6.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Dansby Swanson hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning in Game 6 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021, in Houston. Swanson, the top overall pick in the 2015 amateur draft by Arizona, was the Most Outstanding Player at the 2014 College World Series as he helped Vanderbilt win a national championship. Fried allowed a leadoff single for the second inning in a row, but also got a double-play grounder for the second inning in a row. And if it holds it might have earned him World Series MVP. Kyle Tucker opened the Astros second with a grounder, before Alex Bregman fouled out down the right field line and Jose Siri flew out.

Fried allowed a leadoff single for the second inning in a row, but also got a double-play grounder for the second inning in a row. ___8:15 p.m.Jorge Soler’s three-run blast has given the Braves a 3-0 lead in the third inning. And if it holds it might have earned him World Series MVP. Kyle Tucker opened the Astros second with a grounder, before Alex Bregman fouled out down the right field line and Jose Siri flew out. The Houston Astros stranded runners at second and third base in the first inning of World Series Game 6 against the Atlanta Braves’ Max Fried.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Ozzie Albies dives into third advancing on a double by Austin Riley during the first inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021, in Atlanta. ___3:10 p.m.Alex Bregman remained seventh in the Houston Astros’ batting order and Carlos Correa third for World Series Game 6 against the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night. Bregman hit an RBI double that started Houston’s comeback from a four-run deficit and Correa had three hits and two RBIs. ___2:45 p.m.Major League Baseball planned to have the retractable roof open at Minute Maid Park for Game 6 of the World Series. ___11:15 a.m.Atlanta Braves infielder/outfielder Ehire Adrianza was placed on the postseason paternity list ahead of World Series Game 6 on Tuesday night and replaced on the active roster by infielder Johan Camargo.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Eddie Rosario celebrates after scoring on a double by Austin Riley during the sixth inning in Game 4 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) (Brynn Anderson)HOUSTON — (AP) — The Latest on Game 6 of the World Series (all times local):3:28 p.m.Eddie Rosario was back in the Atlanta Braves’ leadoff spot against right-hander Luis Garcia and Jorge Soler moved to designated hitter in Game 6 of the World Series against Houston. ___3:10 p.m.Alex Bregman remained seventh in the Houston Astros’ batting order and Carlos Correa third for World Series Game 6 against the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night. ___2:45 p.m.Major League Baseball planned to have the retractable roof open at Minute Maid Park for Game 6 of the World Series. ___11:15 a.m.Atlanta Braves infielder/outfielder Ehire Adrianza was placed on the postseason paternity list ahead of World Series Game 6 on Tuesday night and replaced on the active roster by infielder Johan Camargo.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves right fielder Joc Pederson, from left, third baseman Austin Riley and shortstop Dansby Swanson react during the ninth inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Atlanta. Surely after Adam Duvall launched one into the tabled seats in right field for a grand slam in the very first inning, the Atlanta Braves would be celebrating their first World Series title since 1995. The shell-shocked fans headed out into the Battery shopping mall in no mood to party like they had the previous two nights. If we win the World Series, it doesn’t matter where it is. — The Braves, again, wasting a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers in last year's NL Championship Series.

Atlanta was denied a hometown celebration when the Houston Astros rallied from an early 4-0 deficit for a 9-5 win over the Braves in Game 5 of the World Series.

World Series Baseball Houston Astros' Carlos Correa celebrates his RBI single during the eighth inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021, in Atlanta. Trailing 3-1 in the Series, Houston is six outs from forcing a Game 6 back home on Tuesday night. Greinke became the first pitcher with a pinch hit in the World Series since Jack Bentley had two of them in 1923. The Houston Astros have reworked their lineup for Game 5, dropping the slumping Alex Bregman from his usual third spot to seventh. Bregman is 1 for 14 in the World Series, and Houston trails Atlanta three games to one.

Trailing 3-1 in the Series, Houston is six outs from forcing a Game 6 back home on Tuesday night. Greinke became the first pitcher with a pinch hit in the World Series since Jack Bentley had two of them in 1923. ___9 p.m.Alex Bregman and the Houston Astros answered quickly in the second inning, scoring twice to trim their deficit to 4-2 against Atlanta. The Houston Astros have reworked their lineup for Game 5, dropping the slumping Alex Bregman from his usual third spot to seventh. Bregman is 1 for 14 in the World Series, and Houston trails Atlanta three games to one.

Carlos Correa had three hits, Martin Maldonado found three different ways to drive in runs and pinch-hitter Marwin Gonzalez blooped a tiebreaking, two-run single in the fifth inning to lead the Houston Astros over the Atlanta Braves 9-5 and cut their World Series deficit to three games to two.

Time and time again, the Houston Astros put runners on base.

A guy who spent most of the season in the minors kept the Braves in it.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley hits a RBI-double during the third inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) (John Bazemore)ATLANTA — (AP) — Austin Riley keeps coming up with one clutch hit after another on baseball’s biggest stage. Riley drove in the first run of the Braves' 2-0 victory over the Houston Astros in Game 3 of the World Series on a damp Friday night in Atlanta. MVP!” from Atlanta fans when he comes to the plate, Riley has carried his regular-season success right to the postseason. In the Game 6 clincher, Riley put the Braves ahead with a two-out RBI double in the first, yet another clutch hit that was overshadowed by Rosario's MVP-winning performance.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley hits a RBI-double during the third inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, in Atlanta. In the first World Series game in Atlanta since 1999, Anderson walked two in the first and retired the side in order in the second. On a cool, dreary night in Atlanta, Braves starter Ian Anderson worked around two walks in the top half of the first. ___5 p.m.Atlanta Braves pitcher Charlie Morton has had surgery to repair the fractured right fibula sustained in the World Series opener. The Atlanta Braves host Houston on Friday night at Truist Park with the matchup tied at one game apiece.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley hits a RBI-double during the third inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Friday, Oct. 29, 2021, in Atlanta. In the first World Series game in Atlanta since 1999, Anderson walked two in the first and retired the side in order in the second. On a cool, dreary night in Atlanta, Braves starter Ian Anderson worked around two walks in the top half of the first. ___5 p.m.Atlanta Braves pitcher Charlie Morton has had surgery to repair the fractured right fibula sustained in the World Series opener. The Atlanta Braves host Houston on Friday night at Truist Park with the matchup tied at one game apiece.

World Series Baseball Houston Astros' Jose Altuve hits a home run during the seventh inning in Game 2 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) (Sue Ogrocki)HOUSTON — (AP) — The Latest on Game 2 of the World Series between the Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros (all times local):10:20 p.m. ___7:35 p.m.José Altuve has helped give the Houston Astros their first lead of the World Series. The Houston Astros are starting José Siri in center field instead of Chas McCormick for Game 2 of the World Series against the Atlanta Braves. But he got a chance to contribute in the ALCS and in the World Series with Meyers out with a shoulder injury.

World Series Baseball Houston Astros' Jose Altuve hits a home run during the seventh inning in Game 2 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, in Houston. ___7:35 p.m.José Altuve has helped give the Houston Astros their first lead of the World Series. Morton’s right fibula was broken by a 102 mph drive off the bat of Houston’s Yuli Gurriel in the World Series opener. The Houston Astros are starting José Siri in center field instead of Chas McCormick for Game 2 of the World Series against the Atlanta Braves. But he got a chance to contribute in the ALCS and in the World Series with Meyers out with a shoulder injury.

World Series Baseball Houston Astros starting pitcher Jose Urquidy throws during the first inning in Game 2 of baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, in Houston. ___8:25 p.m.José Urquidy has four strikeouts in three innings and the Houston Astros lead the Atlanta Braves 5-1 going into the fourth. ___7:35 p.m.José Altuve has helped give the Houston Astros their first lead of the World Series. ___2:15 p.m.Left-hander Tucker Davidson has replaced injured pitcher Charlie Morton on the Atlanta Braves’ World Series roster. Major League Baseball announced the move before Game 2 between the Braves and Houston Astros on Wednesday night.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Luke Jackson throws during the sixth inning of Game 1 in baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) (Ashley Landis)HOUSTON — (AP) — The Latest on Game 1 of the World Series (all times local):10 p.m.Luke Jackson relieved A.J. Minter and threw a scoreless sixth inning, leaving the Atlanta Braves with a 5-1 lead over the Houston Astros in the World Series opener. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman also made nice plays to limit the damage. ___7:30 p.m.Atlanta’s Jorge Soler has become the first batter ever to lead off a World Series with a home run.

World Series Baseball Houston Astros' Kyle Tucker scores on an error during the fourth inning of Game 1 in baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) (Ashley Landis)HOUSTON — (AP) — The Latest on Game 1 of the World Series (all times local):9:15 p.m. Braves starter Charlie Morton, who won Game 7 of the 2017 World Series for the Astros, also struggled at the outset. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman also made nice plays to limit the damage. 3:10 p.m.Jorge Soler moved up to the Atlanta Braves' leadoff spot for the opener against the Houston Astros and right-hander Charlie Morton.

World Series Baseball Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Charlie Morton rubs his leg before leaving the game during the third inning of Game 1 in baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) (Ashley Landis)HOUSTON — (AP) — The Latest on Game 1 of the World Series (all times local):8:50 p.m.Atlanta starter Charlie Morton has been removed in the third inning because of a right ankle injury. Braves starter Charlie Morton, who won Game 7 of the 2017 World Series for the Astros, also struggled at the outset. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman also made nice plays to limit the damage. 3:10 p.m.Jorge Soler moved up to the Atlanta Braves' leadoff spot for the opener against the Houston Astros and right-hander Charlie Morton.

___7:43 p.m.Jorge Soler got this 117th World Series off to a smashing start. Braves starter Charlie Morton, who won Game 7 of the 2017 World Series for the Astros, also struggled at the outset. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman also made nice plays to limit the damage. ___7:30 p.m.Atlanta’s Jorge Soler has become the first batter ever to lead off a World Series with a home run. 3:10 p.m.Jorge Soler moved up to the Atlanta Braves' leadoff spot for the opener against the Houston Astros and right-hander Charlie Morton.

NLCS Braves Dodgers Baseball Braves third baseman Austin Riley, left, and pitcher A.J. Minter run sprints as they prepare to play the Dodgers in game 5 of the NLCS on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021, in Los Angeles. "Curtis Compton / Curtis.Compton@ajc.com"/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)inning of Game 5 of the baseball NL Championship Series, Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021, in Los Angeles. (Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) (Curtis Compton)ATLANTA — (AP) — Country musician Travis Tritt, who canceled shows at venues that required a COVID-19 vaccine or mask-wearing, was set to sing the national anthem before Game 6 of the NL Championship Series on Saturday night. “FYI - I will be singing our National Anthem for Game 6 of the NLCS in Atlanta tonight between the @Braves and @Dodgers,” he wrote, adding an American flag to his post.

NLCS Dodgers Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves pitcher Ian Anderson walks back to the dugout during the first inning in Game 2 of baseball's National League Championship Series Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in Atlanta. The Dodgers have won seven straight games when facing postseason elimination. That streak dates to last October when Mookie Betts and his teammates overcame a 3-1 deficit against Atlanta in the NLCS. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Friday that Los Angeles also may ask to have left-hander Justin Bruihl (sore arm) replaced. While Atlanta blew a 3-1 lead in the 2020 semifinal round to the Dodgers, Riley batted .143 with 10 strikeouts in 28 at-bats.

(AP Photo/John Bazemore) (John Bazemore)A look at what's happening around the majors today:___COMING HOMETrailing 2-0 in the NL Championship Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers have the Atlanta Braves right where they want them. They’ve lost nine straight in Los Angeles, getting swept in a three-game series in late August and were shut out twice in the 2018 NL Division Series. Going back to the 2013 NLDS, the Braves have dropped 19 of their last 22 in LA. Greinke will start Game 4 but likely won't get a long leash after being limited over the past two months with a neck issue and a positive COVID-19 test. The Red Sox will start right-hander Nick Pivetta, who was 9-8 with a 4.53 ERA in the regular season.

The Braves defeated the Dodgers 5-4 to lead the series 2-0 games. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) (John Bazemore)ATLANTA — (AP) — More late-night magic has the Atlanta Braves just two wins away from the World Series. Los Angeles went on to beat Tampa Bay in the World Series, while the Braves stewed for another shot. Seventy-three of 87 teams taking 2-0 leads in best-of-seven baseball postseason series have gone on to win. FIRST PITCHDale Murphy, one of the Atlanta Braves' greatest players, threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

The Braves defeated the Dodgers 5-4 to lead the series 2-0 games. The Braves need two more victories for their first World Series appearance since 1999, but they can't celebrate just yet. Seventy-three of 87 teams taking 2-0 leads in best-of-seven baseball postseason series have gone on to win. Los Angeles went on to beat Tampa Bay in the World Series, while the Braves stewed for another shot. UP NEXTRH Walker Buehler (0-1, 3.38 ERA in the postseason) gets the start for the Dodgers in Game 3 against Braves RH Charlie Morton (0-1, 3.86).

If Chris Taylor could do it all over, he would've stopped at second base on Cody Bellinger's ninth-inning single. “As I was rounding second, I saw (right fielder Joc Pederson) get the ball sooner than I anticipated," Taylor said, “and I thought twice about not getting thrown out at third, and then he just threw it back behind me." The Los Angeles Dodgers had trouble getting all the way around the bases throughout Saturday night's NL Championship Series opener.

NLCS Dodgers Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley runs past Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Albert Pujols (55) after hitting a home run during the fourth inning in Game 1 of baseball's National League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021, in Atlanta. Blake Treinen struck out Freddie Freeman to open the ninth before giving up Ozzie Albies' bloop single to center field. The Dodgers rallied from a 3-1 deficit to win last year's series in seven games before also winning the World Series. Eddie Rosario led off with a single, stole second, moved to third on Albies' groundout and scored on Knebel's wild pitch to Riley. The Dodgers pulled even in the second on AJ Pollock's two-out double and Taylor's single to left field.

NLDS Braves Brewers Baseball Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Charlie Morton reacts after leaving the game against the Milwaukee Brewers during the seventh inning in Game 1 of baseball's National League Divisional Series Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, in Milwaukee. Morton, one of baseball's best clutch pitchers, hoped to give the Braves a clinching victory in the best-of-five series. “He’s great with it,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said before the game. Morton worked into the seventh inning on Friday, throwing 85 pitches in a 2-1 loss to the Brewers in Game 1. If the Brewers won Game 4, the deciding game would be held Thursday in Milwaukee.

Phillies Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Ian Anderson (36) delivers in the first inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021, in Atlanta. They'll face their former city in the playoffs when they open the best-of-five Division Series at the NL Central champion Brewers on Oct. 8. The Braves got hot over the second half of the season to win one of the majors' weakest divisions. But Atlanta snuffed out the Phillies' hopes with a stifling run of starting pitching by Charlie Morton, Max Fried and Anderson. Braves: Host a weekend series against the New York Mets that will serve as final tune-up for the playoffs.

Phillies Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley (27) gestures towards the Braves' dugout after hitting a two-run double in the seventh inning of a baseball game Philadelphia Phillies Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021, in Atlanta. Ian Anderson (8-5, 3.60 ERA) pitches for the Braves — the right-hander has no decisions and a 3.09 ERA in four starts against Philadelphia this year. Harper, who had reached base in 23 straight games before Wednesday, is 0 for 7 with five strikeouts. Lance McCullers Jr. (12-5, 3.17 ERA) starts the series finale for the Astros, who have lost five of their last six games. Franco matched the mark with three hits Wednesday night as Tampa Bay beat Houston 7-0 to clinch home-field advantage through the AL Championship Series.

Braves Diamondbacks Baseball Atlanta Braves' Freddie Freeman high fives Ozzie Albies (1) after hitting a two run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021, in Phoenix. Albies became the third player to reach 30 home runs for the Braves this season, joining Riley (31) and Freeman (31). Albies hit a sacrifice fly to left and Riley beat out an infield hit with Freeman advancing to third. Duvall then hit what appeared to be his 38th homer of the season. But Riley, thinking McCarthy had the ball in his glove, retreated to first base as Duvall passed him between first and second.

Adam Duvall passed teammate Austin Riley while running the bases after a drive over the wall in left-center, costing the Atlanta Braves slugger his 38th homer of the season. Duvall was ultimately credited with a two-run single on the bizarre first-inning play against the Arizona Diamondbacks. It happened because Riley thought the ball had been caught.

Braves Diamondbacks Baseball Atlanta Braves' Freddie Freeman high fives Austin Riley (27) after scoring on a double hit by Ozzie Albies during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Monday, Sept. 20, 2021, in Phoenix. The two worst teams in the majors this season are currently having a big effect on the NL East race. The Diamondbacks led 3-2 heading to the fifth but the Braves responded with a huge inning, scoring seven runs while sending 12 batters to the plate. Duvall has also added plenty of punch since coming to the Braves in a midseason trade with the Marlins. PITCHER IN A PINCHThe Braves used pitcher Max Fried as a pinch hitter in the fifth inning.

Giants Braves Baseball Atlanta Braves' Eddie Rosario swings for a single off San Francisco Giants' Anthony DeSciafani in the third inning of a baseball game Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Ben Margot) (Ben Margot)ATLANTA — (AP) — Jorge Soler and Austin Riley homered off Anthony DeSclafani, Ian Anderson pitched into the sixth inning in his return from the injured list, and the Atlanta Braves beat the San Francisco Giants 9-0 on Sunday. Soler opened the fourth inning with his 20th homer, a drive into the seats in left. Freddie Freeman followed with an infield single and Riley then launched his 28th homer into the seats in left-center. Braves: LHP Drew Smyly (9-3, 4.54 ERA) pitches for the Braves on Monday night in the opener of a three-game series at Los Angeles.