Diamondbacks Win Third Straight, Kelly, Martinez Key 2-1 Braves Victory

Merrill Kelly pitched a dominant game for the Arizona Diamondbacks, striking out eight batters and allowing only one hit and one walk over seven scoreless innings against the Atlanta Braves, helping secure a 2-1 victory. Kelly's performance marked his second start in the season with seven shutout innings and one or fewer hits allowed, showcasing his continued excellence with a 6-2 record and 3.43 ERA. The bullpen faced a tough challenge as Ryan Thompson allowed runners in scoring position in the eighth inning, but reliever Justin Martinez managed to escape the jam with key strikeouts, despite a shaky ninth inning where he walked three and hit a batter. Martinez earned his fifth save on the season, though he struggled with control, allowing one run to score but ultimately closing out the game by striking out Michael Harris II with the bases loaded. Ketel Marte contributed with an insurance RBI single in the ninth, cementing the Diamondbacks' third straight victory. The game featured a pitchers’ duel with Braves ace Chris Sale also delivering a strong performance, striking out ten over six innings and allowing just one run.