Braves flash promising stat in much-needed series-opening win vs. Mets

Olson set the tone with a two-homer performance, giving the Braves the kind of middle-of-the-order production they have needed during Acuña’s absence. Harris added one of the night’s biggest swings with a two-run homer, while Albies also joined the power surge. The four-homer performance marked Atlanta’s first game with at least three home runs since a 5-2 win over the Cincinnati Reds on May 30.

That May 30 game also came with Acuña in the lineup, as he hit two home runs before later landing on the injured list with a left hamstring strain. The Braves’ downturn has largely overlapped with his absence, which has made nights like Friday even more important. Atlanta also recently signed Andrew McCutchen to a minor league deal as the front office continues to look for more offensive options.

The lineup provided the loudest moments, but Grant Holmes also gave the Braves five steady innings. The right-hander allowed two runs, one earned, on five hits to help Atlanta protect the early lead. Raisel Iglesias gave up a run-scoring single in the ninth but still closed out his 17th save of the 2026 season.

Juan Soto hit a two-run homer for the Mets, but New York continued its rough slide. The Mets have now dropped 10 of their last 12 games and sit in last place in the NL East.

For the Braves, Friday night felt bigger than one result. It was a needed reminder that, even after a rough patch, their offense can still change games quickly once the bats show up.