May 03 2008
Huddy answers the call, weaves a gem as Braves end losing streak
By Bud L. Ellis
braves.today.com
Braves 2, Reds 0
Top of the Order: Tim Hudson offered up arguably his best (and most needed) performance in an Atlanta uniform, a three-hit complete-game shutout, and Brian McCann hit a two-run homer in the fourth as the Braves snapped a four-game losing streak to open the homestand.
The Good: Huddy, Huddy, Huddy. Maybe Timmy (insert “Timmy” from South Park here) read my Tuesday piece imploring him to step up and pitch like an ace. The right-hander couldn’t be touched by the Reds. Yes, it was the Reds, who aren’t very good. But, the big thing is Hudson stayed in control all night long. He threw 110 pitches, 81 for strikes, and didn’t walk anybody while striking out 10. McCann, who’s struggled with runners on base, gave Huddy all he needed with his sixth dinger of the season. Chipper Jones keeps on hitting: 2-for-3, raising his average to .417. The best news of all: No reason for moaning and groaning on this night. No bullpen meltdown. No frustrating loss. Just a good, solid victory.
The Bad: Gotta look hard on this one. OK, here goes. Braves only finished with six hits. Part of that is credit to Edinson Volquez, who gave up four hits over six innings. But Volquez was 4-0 coming into the game. Jeff Francoeur was thrown out stealing and Yunel Escobar committed an error. Maybe this isn’t a bad thing, but it’s doubtful many people in Atlanta took notice (32,057 did show up at Turner Field) with the Hawks stunning the Celtics again in Game 6 of their playoff series, forcing a decisive Game 7 Sunday.
View from the Sports Garage: Just what the Braves needed. Hudson dominated in every aspect of the game. McCann gave him the lead with the homer, and Huddy settled into a nice groove. I am so happy Bobby Cox allowed him to go the distance. That’s two nights off in a row for the bullpen when you factor in Thursday’s off day. Hudson made a tremendous statement Friday night with his performance, that he can be the go-to guy this rotation so sorely needs now with John Smoltz no longer starting. If the Braves are going to make the playoffs, Hudson has to pitch well. Friday night was a fantastic start.
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