Braves Reach .500, Rookies Drive Historic Turnaround

The Atlanta Braves reached a .500 record (22-22) by defeating the Washington Nationals 5-2, with rookie pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver delivering a dominant six-inning, two-hit performance and rookie catcher Drake Baldwin contributing three hits and an RBI. Smith-Shawver has now allowed just one earned run over his last 19.2 innings, while Baldwin, recently promoted due to injuries, is batting over .600 in May and is earning increased playing time. Manager Brian Snitker praised both young players for their significant impact on the team's resurgence after a poor start to the season. The Braves are on the verge of joining a select group of MLB teams to reach a winning record after beginning a season with a seven-plus game losing streak. The team also expects a further boost as former All-Star Spencer Strider is set to return to the rotation next week following recovery from injuries. Atlanta's turnaround is largely credited to the contributions of these emerging rookies and the resilience of the roster.