### Braves Snap Dodgers' Streak with Austin Riley's Power Play The Atlanta Braves managed to halt the Los Angeles Dodgers' seven-game winning streak with a thrilling 4-3 victory on May 5, 2025. This win was crucial for the Braves, who were looking to avoid a three-game sweep at home. Austin Riley's standout performance, featuring two early two-run home runs, was pivotal in securing the win. Additionally, pitcher Bryce Elder contributed significantly by delivering five strong innings, allowing only two runs and striking out six batters. This victory marked the Braves' first win against the Dodgers in six attempts this season, showcasing their resilience after a recent slump. ### Breakdown of the Game's Key Elements 1. **Austin Riley's Performance** - Riley hit two two-run homers, bringing his season total to eight and leading the team in RBIs with 24. - His batting average improved to .292, demonstrating a significant turnaround after a slow start to the season. 2. **Pitching Highlights** - Bryce Elder pitched five innings, allowing two runs on four hits, and recorded six strikeouts. - The Braves' bullpen, including Daysbel Hernandez and Raisel Iglesias, effectively closed out the game, with Iglesias earning his sixth save. 3. **Game Context** - The Braves were coming off a three-game losing streak and needed this win to regain momentum. - The Dodgers had previously dominated the series, winning the first two games, including a 10-3 rout the day before. 4. **Upcoming Challenges** - The Braves are set to face the Cincinnati Reds in a four-game homestand, with Riley's recent form being a positive sign for the team's offensive strategy. ### Supporting Evidence and Statistics - **Austin Riley's Season Stats**: - **Home Runs**: 8 - **RBIs**: 24 - **Batting Average**: .292 - **Performance Against Dodgers**: 5-for-12 with two homers in the series [https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/austin-rileys-two-homers-continue-his-surge-help-braves-avoid-sweep/CBK5QCHPORAY3KPDYFSNBTK2CM]. - **Bryce Elder's Game Stats**: - **Innings Pitched**: 5 - **Runs Allowed**: 2 - **Strikeouts**: 6 - **Record**: 2-1 for the season [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6333786/2025/05/05/braves-dodgers-takeaways-austin-riley-bryce-elder]. - **Game Summary**: - Final Score: Braves 4, Dodgers 3 - The Braves ended the Dodgers' seven-game winning streak and avoided a sweep in the series [https://www.reuters.com/sports/baseball/austin-riley-two-hrs-powers-braves-past-dodgers-2025-05-05]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Braves In summary, the Braves' victory over the Dodgers on May 5, 2025, can be seen as a significant turning point in their season. 1. **Key Performers**: Austin Riley's explosive batting and Bryce Elder's solid pitching were instrumental in the win. 2. **Momentum Shift**: This victory not only halted the Dodgers' winning streak but also provided the Braves with much-needed confidence as they head into their next series against the Reds. 3. **Future Outlook**: With Riley's resurgence and Elder's consistent performance, the Braves are poised to build on this success and improve their standing in the league [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/austin_riley_two_hrs_powers_braves_past_dodgers/s1_17044_42150505].