The Cincinnati Reds are now 6-1 all time when opening the season against a defending World Series champion. Thursday night in Atlanta, the Reds beat the Braves 6-3.
Starting pitcher Tyler Mahle pitched well allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts over five innings. Tony Santillan struck out two in the ninth and picked up the save.
The Reds got the scoring started in the second on a Kyle Farmer line drive to left that scored Tyler Stephenson.
In the third, Joey Votto singled on a liner to right which plated Jonathan India. Stephenson then sac flied Aristides Aquino home.
And up 3-1 entering the sixth, Brandon Drury hit a three-run homer with Mike Moustakas and Farmer aboard.
The Reds and the Braves play again Friday. Cincy sends Reiver Sanmartin to the hill while Atlanta counters with Alex Dickerson. Listen to the game on Country 103.9 WRBI beginning at 6:50 pm. First pitch is 7:20 pm.