CHICAGO – When Braves manager Walt Weiss kept a struggling Ozzie Albies out of the lineup for Thursday’s series finale against the Rays, the veteran second baseman provided a pinch-hit triple during a decisive three-run eighth. When Weiss moved Albies down to the lineup’s eighth spot Tuesday at Wrigley Field, the four-time All-Star responded with a go-ahead two-run homer that helped the Braves claim a 6-3 win over the Cubs and move another step closer to winning the NL East. “The eight spot has gotten some guys hot this year,” Weiss said with a smile. “That was great to see. And he got the hit later. The home runs, when we’re thriving, we’re hitting them.” Albies, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Drake Baldwin each hit a two-run homer as the Braves moved 5 1/2 games ahead of the second-place Phillies in the National League East race. “I'm sure you guys will let me know when we get to clinching something,” Weiss said. “You just need to play well and win games.”
