The Atlanta Braves faced off against one of the top teams in the major leagues in a three-game series on Friday night. It comes as no surprise that the Braves are among the top teams, given their impressive track record. They secured 104 wins last year and have made six postseason appearances in the past six years.
The Cleveland Guardians’ presence as the second team in this series comes as a surprise, given their recent performance. They endured a challenging season last year, with 86 losses marking their second losing season in the past three years.
However, the Guardians have made an impressive turnaround this season, boasting a record of 18-7. As they visit Atlanta’s Truist Park for the first time, it represents a significant upgrade from their previous experiences at Fulton County Stadium. It was at Fulton County Stadium where the Guardians, then known as the Indians, faced the Braves in the 1995 World Series, ultimately losing in six games.
Stephen Vogt serves as a bridge between these two teams. Notably, he is the rookie manager for the Guardians and previously served as a backup catcher for the Braves during their World Series victory in 2021.
Vogt took a modest approach when discussing the significance of the early-season series against the formidable 17-6 Braves.
“I didn’t really address it with the guys,” Vogt commented. “But it’s definitely exciting. You always want to compete against the best teams. When two top teams face off, it’s what baseball is all about.”
He also highlighted the enjoyable aspect of playing in Atlanta for the first time, noting the unique experience for his team.
“It’s just a fun atmosphere here in Atlanta. None of our guys have had the chance to play here before, so it’s a really cool experience.”
Vogt joined the Braves in a trade with the Diamondbacks on July 16, 2021, when the Braves’ regular catchers were sidelined due to injuries.
Vogt emphasized the rich history of winning embedded within the Braves organization.
“There’s a legacy of winning here,” Vogt remarked. “As soon as you step into the clubhouse, you can feel it. You understand that winning is the expectation, and it’s ingrained in the culture. It’s evident right from the start.”
Reflecting on Atlanta’s World Series victory in 2021, Vogt, although injured at the time, felt a strong connection to the team’s success.
“Even though I was sidelined due to injury, I was fully immersed in the experience,” Vogt recalled. “I attended meetings and shared in the joy of victory with my teammates. Winning together brings you closer as a group. Brian Snitker, the Braves manager, has been a significant mentor for me. I’ve learned a great deal from him in a short period.”
Vogt is keenly aware of the Cleveland Guardians’ reputation for winning, despite recent challenges in maintaining that status.
“We emphasize it constantly – the importance of winning each day,” Vogt affirmed. “Our objective is to approach each day with the mindset of winning. Even if we don’t come out on top in a game, we can still win the day.”
He acknowledges the Guardians’ inherent winning culture, recognizing that it cannot be manufactured or artificially created.
“These players have a deep-rooted desire to win. It’s not something you can fabricate. There’s no secret formula. It comes down to the players executing and doing what they do best.”
Testing, testing, testing
Eli Morgan, currently on the 15-day injured list, is set to undergo another bullpen session on Saturday, with the outcome of that session determining his next course of action. Morgan was sidelined and placed on the IL on April 17.
Meanwhile, left-handed pitcher Sam Hentges is slated to make his third rehab appearance with Class AAA Columbus on Friday night. Hentges has been recovering from a swollen middle finger on his left hand and began the season on the IL. The team is evaluating his progress after each outing to determine the optimal time for his return.
James Karinchak recently joined the Guardians after rehabbing his sore right shoulder in Goodyear, Arizona, since early in spring training. He underwent medical evaluations upon arrival and is expected to return to Goodyear soon. Karinchak has been gradually increasing his throwing distance and remains patient in his recovery process, focusing on each step of the journey.
Fire down below
Kyle Manzardo had an impressive performance, going 3 for 6 with two RBI, while Myles Straw contributed with a 2 for 4 performance, and Daniel Schneemann drove in three runs to lead Class AAA Columbus to a 9-1 victory over Syracuse. Pitcher Adam Oller (1-1, 3.43) delivered a solid outing, allowing just one run over six innings, while recording four strikeouts and five walks.
In Class AA action, Dayan Frias and Alexfri Planez each collected two hits as Akron secured a 4-0 win against Altoona. Starting pitcher Rodney Boone pitched 4 2/3 innings with three strikeouts and four walks, with three relievers completing the four-hit shutout. Chase DeLauter went 1 for 3 in the contest.
Over in Class A, Jonah Advincula drove in two runs with three hits, and Tyresse Turner contributed with two hits as Lake County defeated Western Michigan 4-1. Pitcher Parker Messick (1-2, 1.77) pitched six innings, allowing one run while striking out five batters.
Left-handed pitcher Matt Wilkinson delivered a dominant performance for Lynchburg, striking out 16 batters and not allowing a hit over six innings in a 3-0 victory against Myrtle Beach. Tommy Hawke and Christian Knapczyk each contributed with two hits in the win.