“Braves and Cardinals Heat Up: NL Powerhouses Clash in Series Opener”
“After emerging from extended slumps earlier this season, the Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals have become two of the hottest teams in the National League.
Both teams aim to maintain their momentum starting Monday as Atlanta begins a three-game series in St. Louis.
The Braves have won eight of their last ten games after enduring a five-game losing streak.
“We’ve been hitting the ball well,” remarked Atlanta manager Brian Snitker following a series win against the New York Yankees. “Our situational hitting was solid. It’s been a good stretch for us.”
Meanwhile, the Cardinals secured a 5-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, completing a three-game sweep. St. Louis has won eight of their past eleven games.
Since starting the season 15-24, the Cardinals have turned things around with a 24-13 record, positioning themselves in the playoff hunt.
“I’m liking our current approach,” said St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol. “Offensively, we’re aggressive and looking to capitalize on pitches in the zone. We’re playing a balanced game, focusing on small ball, timely hitting, aggressive baserunning, and solid defense. This is the style we need to sustain.”
The Cardinals will start right-hander Lance Lynn (2-3, 4.08 ERA) in the series opener, aiming for a rebound. Lynn has struggled in June, yielding 17 runs (12 earned) across four starts.
Atlanta will counter with rookie right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach (1-2, 4.98 ERA), who has impressed recently by allowing just three runs over his last two starts.
Monday’s game marks Schwellenbach’s first career outing against the Cardinals. St. Louis might activate catcher Willson Contreras from the injured list for the series, while Nolan Arenado and Michael Siani are day-to-day due to injuries.”
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