Braves fall to the Red Sox following Dustin Pedoria's monster game

The Braves losing streak was extended to 8 games thanks in large part to Dustin Pedroia (3-5 2HR 5RBI), and David Ortiz (3-5 2RBI 3 2B). The game was over pretty quickly as Bud Norris struggled with almost every facet of his game. Bud lasted just 1.1 innings and managed to surrender 6ER on 2 walks and 7 hits. I don't think it's too hot of a take to say his days in Atlanta are winding down.

John Gant, who was called up just earlier this day, came in and provided some much needed long relief. While he wasn't great he ate up 4.2 innings and didn't force Fredi to use too many members of the bullpen. His next step in his progression will be to manage his walks as he threw 3 more tonight.

The lone bright spot on the staff tonight was Hunter Cervenka who continues to get it done. The former Indy League pitcher came in and mowed down the Red Sox striking out Shaw, and Holt before getting Hanigan to ground out to Aybar. Cervenka has been a good story for the Braves in a season so far mired by poor play. Since joining the organization on July 10th of 2015 Cervenka has yet to yield a run at any level (AA, AAA, MLB). The Braves really found a diamond in the rough.

Jason Grilli added in an inning but continued struggle with his command, and show a decrease in his velocity (2-3MPH) since returning from surgery.

Offensively, I wish there was more to report. Freddie Freeman ended the slide of 625 straight plate appearances without a homerun for the team. It was the teams 4th long ball of the season and hopefully what Freddie needed to get things going as he has hit .219/.337/.342 to start the season. Nick Markakis added his 10th double of the season, and congratulations are in order for AJ Pierzynski who became just the 10th catcher all-time to have 2,000 hits.

The Braves had their opportunities but hit a collective 2-12 with RISP, and 4 players (Castro, Garcia, Francoeur, Aybar) went a combined 0-16 with 7 strikeouts.

The Braves hope to leave Boston with at least one win tomorrow as Chacin(0-1 3.18 ERA) faces off against Buchholz (0-2 6.33 ERA)