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.