Colorado Rockies at Atlanta Braves

Whether the Braves have the rotation they need for the postseason won’t be known until October arrives. But nearly a month after the Aug. 3 Trade Deadline, it looks like Atlanta has the starters necessary to successfully navigate the remainder of the regular season. Martín Pérez extended the rotation’s recent success and added to the splendor of his comeback season while helping the Braves claim a spirited 2-1 win over the Rockies on Saturday afternoon at Truist Park. Pérez’s 5 2/3 solid innings were backed by Michael Harris’ two-out, two-run double in the eighth. “Offense can win your games,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “But over the long haul, the pitching is what's foundational to your success. We pitched really well and the bullpen was once again outstanding.” Matt Olson began a two-out rally in the eighth with a single and then advanced to third base on Mauricio Dubon’s single. When Harris followed with his decisive double, Dubon ran through third-base coach Tommy Watkins’ stop sign and scored easily when the throw went to second base. Harris’ game-winning hit helped the Braves (81-55) extend their winning streak to six games and maintained their lead over the Phillies at five games in the National League East race. They are also now tied with the Dodgers in the battle for the second of the NL’s two postseason byes.  Atlanta's offense has been heating up, but it’s important to point out that the Braves rank fourth in the Majors and first among NL teams with a 2.94 starters' ERA since Aug. 4, the day after the Trade Deadline. “I think we’re all on the same page,” Pérez said. “Our goal is to just put up good innings and help the team win.”