MLB

The Atlanta Braves dropped a frustrating game to the Toronto Blue Jays last night in the series opener, 0-3.

Let’s focus on the positives from last night first, of which there is only one.

Spencer Strider.

Strider was himself again after two rocky outings following his near-perfect game against Miami. In 6.2 innings he struck out 12 batters, allowed five hits, and two earned runs.

Yes, the rules say that the second run is on Spencer. But Danny Young just couldn’t find the zone at all, and a passed ball is what allowed the run.

But still, Strider had a great outing, as did the pitchers as a whole.

Only allowing three runs to that Toronto team is a good accomplishment, it’s just that it felt like a lot with Atlanta’s lack of production.

Offensively, the Braves will need to forget this game quickly. No disrespect to Chris Bassitt, but he isn’t a guy you want to throw you a complete game shutout.

Not that there are many guys you do want that from.

The Braves only got two hits, from Eddie Rosario and Ronald Acuña Jr., but still had a few opportunities they missed on.

In the top of the 5th, they had first and second with one out before Rosario was thrown out after a bizarre decision to try and steal third base.

But they still loaded the bases that inning before Orlando Arcia flew out in foul ground to end the inning.

The next inning, Acuña and Matt Olson both got on to start the inning, but Austin Riley grounded into a double play and Sean Murphy lined out on a laser to left field.

It just wasn’t the Braves’ night. It happens.

They’ll look to even the series tomorrow afternoon at 3:07 pm ET as Bryce Elder takes the mound against José Berríos.