Braves bash Twins starter Bailey Ober before storm delay and then breeze to 10-6 victory

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – In a dramatic game interrupted by a thunderstorm, the Atlanta Braves overcame a strong performance from Matt Olson and Max Fried to defeat the Minnesota Twins 10-6 on Monday night. Olson made a major impact early, hitting a three-run homer and a two-run double off Bailey Ober before the game was halted by severe weather.

The storm caused an 86-minute delay, but Fried, who had been struggling since June, took advantage of the break to earn his first win since June 23. Despite the interruption, Fried pitched five solid innings, allowing just one earned run and striking out seven without issuing a walk.

Ober, who had been on a hot streak with 11 consecutive quality starts, was knocked around early by the Braves’ potent lineup. Atlanta scored four runs off Ober before he even recorded an out, and they continued to pile on five more runs before the rain delay. Ober’s short outing led to an easy decision for manager Rocco Baldelli to go to the bullpen once play resumed.

In addition to Olson’s big night, Travis d’Arnaud and Marcell Ozuna contributed significantly, with d’Arnaud hitting a two-run homer and Ozuna adding two runs and two RBIs. Despite the loss, the Twins managed to gain ground in the AL Central race due to the Cleveland Guardians’ doubleheader sweep by the Kansas City Royals.

The Braves, battling through injuries to key players including Ronald Acuña Jr., remain in the hunt for the NL East title and hold a comfortable lead for the final NL wild card spot. The Twins, meanwhile, maintain a lead in the AL wild card standings but are facing increased pressure from chasing teams.

Looking ahead, the Braves will face the Twins again with Spencer Schwellenbach on the mound for Atlanta and Simeon Woods Richardson starting for Minnesota.