Drake Baldwin drives in 4 runs as Braves take series from Athletics

Catcher Baldwin leads Atlanta to 5-1 win over Oakland with big offensive performance.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:52pm

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Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin drove in four runs on two hits, including a two-RBI single, as the Braves defeated the Oakland Athletics 5-1 to take the series. Starting pitcher Chris Sale threw six innings of one-hit ball to earn his second win of the season.

Why it matters

The Braves' series win over the Athletics continues their strong start to the 2026 season, building on their momentum from last year's playoff run. Baldwin's offensive production has been a key factor in the Braves' early success.

The details

Baldwin went 2-for-3 at the plate with four RBIs and a walk. His two-RBI single in the second inning gave the Braves an early lead they would not relinquish. Starting pitcher Chris Sale was dominant, allowing just one hit over six innings to earn the win.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

The players

Drake Baldwin

The Atlanta Braves' starting catcher, who has been a key offensive contributor early in the 2026 season.

Chris Sale

The Braves' starting pitcher, who earned his second win of the season with six innings of one-hit ball.

Denzel Clarke

The Oakland Athletics' starting center fielder, who made a great play to take away what would have been an extra-base hit from Baldwin in the seventh inning.

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The takeaway

Baldwin's offensive production and Sale's strong pitching performance were key factors in the Braves' series-clinching win over the Athletics, continuing Atlanta's hot start to the 2026 season.