Walt Weiss Wins Debut as Braves Manager With 6-0 Opening Day Shutout

The debut signaled an identity rooted in sharp defense with aggressive base running.

Overview

Atlanta, which opened its season Friday in Cobb County, blanked Kansas City 6-0 behind Chris Sale’s six scoreless innings and six strikeouts.
Weiss praised a string of run-saving plays, pointing to outfield grabs by Eli White and Ronald Acuña Jr. and tough infield stops by Austin Riley and Matt Olson.
He said pressure on the bases will define this club, crediting new first base coach Antoan Richardson for drilling reads and leads throughout the spring.
Weiss backed his choice to bat Ozzie Albies third against left-hander Cole Ragans, calling the matchup ideal and noting the order will change versus right-handers.
Players marked the first win with a clubhouse Player of the Game putting ritual for Weiss, as Brian Snitker publicly endorsed his successor during the broadcast.