Braves News
Julio Teheran returns to form as the Braves blank the Reds
Julio Teheran threw six shutout innings to help lead the Braves to a 5-0 win and a split in their weekend series with the Reds. Kelly Johnson stayed hot with a two-run homer in the first inning to help Atlanta get off to a good start. Jonny Gomes added a solo shot as Atlanta battered Reds' ace Johnny Cueto for five runs on the afternoon.
Kelly Johnson among Braves part-timers hitting for power
Veteran Kelly Johnson has been finding himself as a regular part of the Braves' lineup of late. He launched his team-leading fifth home run of the season on Sunday and Fredi Gonzalez talked about what he brings to the team with the AJC's Michael Cunningham:
"There's a comfort level with Kelly," Gonzalez said. "We had him here when I was a coach. He's a straight professional, great makeup. We talked about what the job title could be, he was in on it. He won the job in spring training. And good for us that we were able to pick up a veteran left-handed hitter that can play off the bench and play multiple outfield positions and he's a threat at the plate."
Braves only team to use different lineup combo every game
Fredi Gonzalez used his 25th different starting lineup combination on Sunday in the Braves 25th game of the season. That is the most in the majors with the Texas Rangers second having used 22 different lineups. Coming into the season it was expected that Gonzalez would mix and match but I'm not sure many expected it to be to this degree. Nick Markakis, Freddie Freeman and Andrelton Simmons are the only regulars in the lineup with the others filled in based on matchups and who is playing well.
MLB News
Brewers fire manager Ron Roenicke
The Milwaukee Brewers fired manager Ron Roenicke on Sunday after the team's disappointing start. All signs indicate that Craig Counsell will be named as Roenicke's replacement on Monday. After a win on Sunday, Milwaukee is 7-18 and 11.5 games behind the Cardinals in the central division.
Cubs claim Anthony Varvaro off waivers
The Chicago Cubs claimed relief pitcher Anthony Varvaro off waivers on Sunday. They designated pitcher Joseph Ortiz to make room for Varvaro on the 40-man roster. Varvaro was designated for assignment on Wednesday by the Boston Red Sox.
Jordan Walden lands on disabled list with biceps injury
The Cardinals placed reliever Jordan Walden on the disabled list on Sunday due to a biceps injury. Walden has been effective for St Louis putting up an 0.87 ERA in 10 1/3 innings so far this season.