Braves Crush Rays in Spring Training Rout

Atlanta's offensive onslaught continues with another lopsided win over Tampa Bay

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:05pm

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The Atlanta Braves continued their dominant spring training performance with an 11-2 blowout victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. The Braves' offense pounded Rays pitching, led by multi-hit games from Mike Yastrzemski and Drake Baldwin, who hit a triple and a three-run homer. On the mound, Chris Sale turned in another solid tuneup start for the Braves, going six innings with three strikeouts.

Why it matters

The Braves' impressive spring training record and offensive outbursts suggest the team is primed for another strong regular season campaign. As they prepare to defend their World Series title, these lopsided wins over divisional opponents like the Rays provide valuable preparation and confidence heading into the new year.

The details

The Braves jumped on Rays starter Nick Martinez early, scoring four runs in the second inning highlighted by an Ozzie Albies RBI single and a two-run homer by Eli White. They continued to pour it on against the Rays' bullpen, with Yastrzemski adding a pair of doubles and Baldwin launching a three-run shot in the eighth inning. On the mound, Sale was efficient if not overpowering, mixing in his fastball and secondary pitches to keep the Rays off balance over six innings.

  • The game took place on March 16, 2026.

The players

Chris Sale

The veteran left-hander made another solid start for the Braves, going six innings with three strikeouts as he continues his spring training preparations.

Mike Yastrzemski

The Braves outfielder had a big day at the plate, collecting three hits including a pair of doubles.

Drake Baldwin

The Braves prospect had a standout performance, hitting a triple and a three-run homer to power the team's offensive onslaught.

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What they’re saying

“We e really clicking on all cylinders right now. The pitching has been great and the offense is really coming together, which is exactly what you want to see in spring training.”

— Ozzie Albies, Braves Second Baseman

What’s next

The Braves will continue their spring training schedule with a matchup against the Boston Red Sox on March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The Braves' dominant spring training performance suggests they are primed for another deep postseason run as they look to defend their World Series title. Their potent offense and solid pitching staff have them well-positioned to build on last year's success.