Braves Have Strong Split-Squad Outing, as Austin Riley Homers

Promising performances from key players and prospects in Braves' split-squad games

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves had a successful split-squad day on Sunday, with strong outings from several players, including Austin Riley, Michael Harris, John Gil, and Hayden Harris. Reynaldo Lopez and Grant Holmes both pitched well, despite some diminished velocity, while Dylan Dodd struggled in his outing. The Braves' offense also showed promise, with Riley and Gil hitting home runs.

Why it matters

The Braves' split-squad games provide an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and compete for roster spots, as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Strong performances from key players and prospects can help solidify the team's depth and build momentum heading into the regular season.

The details

In the home game against the Rays, Reynaldo Lopez pitched three scoreless innings, though his fastball velocity was down a few ticks from previous seasons. Tyler Kinley, Dylan Lee, and Dylan Dodd also saw action out of the bullpen, with Dodd struggling and allowing two home runs. On offense, Michael Harris and Austin Riley had standout performances, with Riley crushing a home run. On the road against the Twins, Grant Holmes pitched 2.2 scoreless innings, and Hayden Harris and John Gil also impressed, with Gil hitting a 109.7 MPH home run.

  • The split-squad games took place on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Reynaldo Lopez

A starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, who pitched three scoreless innings in the split-squad game against the Rays, though his fastball velocity was down from previous seasons.

Austin Riley

An infielder for the Atlanta Braves, who crushed a home run in the split-squad game against the Rays.

Michael Harris

An outfielder for the Atlanta Braves, who had a standout performance at the plate in the split-squad game against the Rays.

John Gil

A prospect for the Atlanta Braves, who hit a 109.7 MPH home run in the split-squad game against the Twins.

Grant Holmes

A pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, who pitched 2.2 scoreless innings in the split-squad game against the Twins.

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The takeaway

The Braves' split-squad games provided a glimpse of the team's depth and potential, with several key players and prospects delivering strong performances. These outings will help the team evaluate its roster and make decisions as it prepares for the upcoming season.