Braves pitch 1-hitter at Cubs in 5-2 series opener

Grant Holmes combined with three relievers on a one-hitter, Austin Riley and Mike Yastrzemski homered and the Atlanta Braves beat the Chicago Cubs 5-2 on Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game set between the National League’s top teams.

Didier Fuentes (2-0) worked three scoreless innings in relief of Holmes, who had not pitched since May 1. Atlanta’s starter worked four innings, allowing a solo homer to Alex Bregman and an RBI grounder by Moisés Ballesteros. He walked four and struck out five while throwing 78 pitches.

Dominic Smith went 4 for 4 and scored twice as the Braves improved to a major league-best 29-13.

Colin Rea (4-2) gave up five runs on seven hits, including both Braves home runs. He walked one and struck out one. The Cubs (27-15) have lost three straight.

The Braves honored Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox and former owner Ted Turner in the first home game since both men died. 

Braves rookie RHP JR Ritchie (1-0, 3.63) will make the fourth start of his career and LHP Shota Imanaga (4-2, 2.28) takes the mound for the Cubs on Wednesday.



(AP Photo Mike Stewart)