The Braves offense continued to sputter in a 2-0 loss to the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies Tuesday night that sank the team to 9.5 games behind in the NL East. The Steakhouse discussed the woes Wednesday.
Atlanta's offense sparked to life earlier in the month, scratching all the way back to the .500 mark after a notorious 0-7 start. But in the past six games, of which the Braves have tallied five losses, the team only scratched more than three runs across only twice. They’d scored 4-plus runs in seven straight games prior to the most recent downturn.
The lack of run production hasn’t been for lack of opportunities. Tuesday night it was Matt Olsen’s turn, who critically struck out in the fifth inning with the bases loaded.
Spencer Strider made his second start since returning from a hamstring injury last night, and if he’s able to round into form and regain command will obviously be a major boost. But the team needs offense to win games, and despite Ronald Acuna Jr.’s recent return, a sharp and sustainable turnaround seems a ways off at this point.