Strider Dominates, Acuña Stays Hot as Braves Beat Rockies 4-1

Spencer Strider struck out 13 batters to notch his first win of the season, while Ronald Acuña Jr. continued his strong form with two hits, including a two-run homer, as the Atlanta Braves defeated the Colorado Rockies 4-1 on Saturday.

With the loss, Colorado (13-57) now holds the worst record through 70 games in the modern era, surpassing the 1932 Boston Red Sox (14-56) for that dubious distinction. The Rockies also set a new franchise record by striking out 19 times in a nine-inning game—matching the Braves’ own team record for strikeouts in a standard-length game.

Atlanta, now regaining momentum, has won back-to-back series after previously losing six in a row and falling 10 games below .500. The Braves have outscored the Rockies 16-5 in the first two games of the series, including Friday’s 12-4 offensive outburst.

Strider (1-5) was in control throughout his six innings, giving up just three hits and one walk. It was his sixth outing since returning from the injured list on May 19.

Spencer Strider

Game-Changing Moment

Acuña, batting .387, launched a two-run homer off Chase Dollander (2-7) in the second inning. It was his seventh home run in just 20 games since returning from knee surgery on May 23. The 410-foot shot landed in Colorado’s bullpen beyond the left field wall.

Notable Stat

Strider’s fastball velocity reached 97–98 mph early in the game, nearly matching his pre-surgery form. Even as his speed dipped slightly to 95–96 mph by the fifth inning, his strikeout total kept climbing, showing signs of a full return to dominance following his 2024 elbow surgery.

What’s Next

The series wraps up Sunday with Grant Holmes (3-5, 4.07 ERA) starting for Atlanta against Colorado’s Austin Gomber (5-12, 4.75 ERA). Originally slated starter Chris Sale will have his next appearance delayed by one game.