Braves Defeat Blue Jays 8-4 in Series Opener

Austin Riley led the Atlanta Braves to an 8-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays by hitting two home runs and driving in five runs, while Sean Murphy added a two-run homer. Braves starter Grant Holmes retired the first 12 batters and allowed just two hits and three earned runs over 7 2/3 innings. Toronto’s only early offense came from a solo homer by Myles Straw in the sixth inning. Blue Jays starter Easton Lucas, who had not allowed a run in his previous starts, gave up eight earned runs in five innings. The game also marked Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s first home appearance after signing a record-setting contract extension. Injuries remain a concern for Toronto, with Max Scherzer still sidelined and George Springer listed as day-to-day due to a wrist issue.