Michael Harris II’s 2-run double lifts the Braves past the Rockies 2-1 for sixth straight win

Atlanta Braves' Michael Harris II's crucial two-run double in the eighth inning propelled the team to a 2-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies, marking their sixth straight win and solidifying their position as the National League East leaders. Brent Suter (2-2) came in to pitch 2 1/3 innings of scoreless relief and secured his first win since being traded to the Braves.

Rookie Didier Fuentes closed out the game with a save after allowing two baserunners in the ninth inning, including a crucial play where he struck out Jake McCarthy. Harris' fly ball to left center field was barely caught by Cole Carrigg, allowing Matt Olson to score from second and Mauricio Dubón from first, completing the scoring.

The Rockies, who entered the game with an MLB-worst 5.54 team ERA, nearly pulled off a shutout, coming within four outs in the sixth inning when Marcell Ozuna singled with the bases loaded, bringing in Hunter Goodman. Pérez, aiming for his 100th career win, struck out six in 5 2/3 innings, allowing only five hits. Connor Norby contributed 2 hits for the Rockies, who came into the game on a 9-11 losing streak.

The game was delayed for 13 minutes when home plate umpire Ron Kulpa was substituted with Manny Gonzalez after a foul ball hit his facemask. Additionally, the game began 16 minutes late due to rain. Looking ahead, Braves right-handed pitcher Tyler Mahle (5-10, 4.41) will face Rockies right-handed pitcher Mason Adams (0-0, 2.25) in a crucial matchup to conclude the three-game series on Sunday.