Braves Shutout Astros 7-0 to Win World Series

The Atlanta Braves hit three home runs and three pitchers held the Houston Astros scoreless as the Braves coasted to a 7-0 win in Game 6 of the 2021 World Series in Houston, securing Atlanta’s first World Series title since 1995, and fourth overall.

Freddy Freeman, Jorge Soler, and Dansby Swanson hit the home runs. Soler was the World Series MVP, hitting .300 with three home runs and six RBIs; he scored four runs and had a 1.191 OPS. The Braves made an incredible comeback during the season. They were 44-45 at the All Star Break, and although they won the National League East, their 88-73 record was the worst of any playoff team. They also made some in season trades that bolstered their outfield after Ronald Acuna, Jr. suffered a season ending injury and Marcell Ozuna was out following a domestic violence incident. The additions of Soler, Adam Duvall, Eddie Rosario, and Joc Pederson turned out to be brilliant as all played important roles in getting to the World Series and winning it.

While the Braves and their fans celebrate and the Hot Stove League begins, there are some storm clouds on the horizon for 2022. Baseball’s Collective Bargaining Agreement ends December 1st, and indications are that the negotiations will be contentious. With no CBA, player movement via free agent signings, trades, and contract extensions will not occur after the end of November. And without an agreement, there is also the likelihood of a lockout of Spring Training by the owners, cascading into a delay of the 2022 season if a lockout goes long enough.