Boston Red Sox vs Atlanta Braves Picks and Predictions June 5th 2024

Spencer Schwellenbach, Braves Shoot for Sweep of Red Sox

The Atlanta Braves are set to face the Boston Red Sox with right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach making his second major league start. Following a strong debut, Schwellenbach aims to lead the Braves to a sweep in this two-game series.

Spencer Schwellenbach’s Second Start

Spencer Schwellenbach (0-1, 5.40 ERA) recently promoted from Double-A Mississippi, will take the mound again. His major league debut on May 29 against the Washington Nationals showcased his potential, as he allowed three runs on five hits in five innings, striking out five and walking one. Despite the Braves losing 7-2, Schwellenbach’s performance was commendable.

“I thought his stuff was real good,” said Braves manager Brian Snitker. “He handled himself really well. The composure, slowing the game down. I thought he was very impressive.”

Catching Situation

Travis d’Arnaud is likely to catch Schwellenbach for the second outing in a row. Sean Murphy left Tuesday’s game with a right elbow injury after being hit by a pitch. Although X-rays were negative, Murphy is optimistic about avoiding the injury list.

“Just a big, gross lump,” Murphy commented. “It looks worse than it is. (The swelling) will go down quick, so I’m not worried about it.”

Atlanta’s Recent Performance

In their recent 8-3 victory over the Red Sox, the Braves displayed power and precision. Home runs by Ozzie Albies and Orlando Arcia were pivotal, with Albies’ three-run shot against Boston starter Kutter Crawford securing a 6-3 lead in the sixth inning.

“Just got to make better pitches,” said Crawford. “Just kind of going through a rut right now, but we’re just going to keep fighting.”

Max Fried, Atlanta’s ace, struck out a career-high 13 batters over seven innings, demonstrating why he is considered one of the best in the league. “He’s one of the best,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “He does that every five days.”

Boston’s Challenges

Nick Pivetta (2-4, 4.08 ERA) is scheduled to start for Boston. His recent performance against the Detroit Tigers ended in a 5-0 loss, where he allowed two runs on three hits and two walks in 5 1/3 innings, striking out nine.

Pivetta has faced the Braves before, taking the loss when the Red Sox were defeated 5-0 on May 8. His career record against Atlanta stands at 7-5 with a 5.30 ERA in 20 appearances (16 starts).

Schwellenbach’s Background

Drafted in the second round of the 2021 draft out of the University of Nebraska, Schwellenbach won the John Olerud Award as the best two-way player in college baseball. Despite undergoing Tommy John surgery before his first professional appearance, his transition to MLB has been watched with keen interest.

Conclusion

As the Braves aim to sweep the Red Sox, all eyes will be on Spencer Schwellenbach to see if he can build on his promising debut. With Atlanta’s recent performances bolstering their confidence, and Boston striving to find their form, the game promises excitement and fierce competition.