Braves secure win over Royals as Kansas City celebrates postseason return

On a Friday night at Truist Park, Max Fried delivered an impressive performance, pitching 8 2/3 innings and allowing only three hits, leading the Atlanta Braves to a 3-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. This game marked a significant moment for the Royals, who celebrated their first postseason berth since 2015 after the Minnesota Twins lost to the Baltimore Orioles. Sean Murphy contributed to the Braves' win with a two-run homer, while Marcell Ozuna scored due to a throwing error after stealing a base. Fried's pitching was characterized by his control, as he threw 98 pitches, striking out nine batters and walking two. The Royals entered the game with a magic number of one, needing a win or a loss by the Twins to secure their playoff spot. Despite the loss, the Royals' players, including Bobby Witt Jr., expressed pride in their achievement. Fried's performance was particularly emotional for him, as he recognized the significance of the moment, especially since it could be his last game of the season. Brady Singer, the Royals' starter, struggled against the Braves, allowing two runs on four hits. Fried's mastery on the mound was acknowledged by Royals manager Matt Quatraro, who praised his pitching skills. The Braves' manager, Brian Snitker, noted the celebratory atmosphere in the dugout following Ozuna's run. Looking ahead, the Royals are set to start RHP Seth Lugo in the second game of the series, while the Braves continue to focus on their postseason aspirations.