Braves Blank Royals Behind Sale, Long Balls

Atlanta's new manager Walt Weiss earns win in debut as Braves offense powers past Kansas City.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:49am

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Chris Sale threw six scoreless innings and the Atlanta Braves hit three home runs to defeat the visiting Kansas City Royals 6-0 on Friday, giving new manager Walt Weiss a win in his debut. Sale struck out six batters, moving up to 30th on the career strikeout list, while Dylan Lee, Robert Suarez and Tyler Kinley each pitched a scoreless inning to finish the game. The Braves' 11-hit attack was powered by homers from Ozzie Albies, Drake Baldwin and Michael Harris II, with Austin Riley going 3-for-3 with a run scored.

Why it matters

The Braves' dominant performance on opening day showcases their offensive firepower and strong pitching, providing an encouraging start to the season under new manager Walt Weiss. Meanwhile, the Royals' struggles at the plate and on the mound raise early questions about their ability to compete in the AL Central.

The details

Chris Sale struck out six batters over six scoreless innings, moving up to 30th on the career strikeout list and providing a strong outing to lead the Braves. The Braves' offense came alive with three home runs - a solo shot from Ozzie Albies, a solo blast from Drake Baldwin, and a two-run homer from Michael Harris II. Starter Cole Ragans took the loss for the Royals, allowing four runs on six hits over four innings.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Chris Sale

The veteran left-handed pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, who threw six scoreless innings and struck out six batters in the win.

Ozzie Albies

The Braves' second baseman, who hit a solo home run in the first inning to open the scoring.

Drake Baldwin

The Braves' catcher, who hit a solo home run in the second inning.

Michael Harris II

The Braves' outfielder, who hit a two-run home run in the fifth inning to extend Atlanta's lead.

Cole Ragans

The Royals' starting pitcher, who took the loss after allowing four runs on six hits over four innings.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great way to start the season, especially with Chris [Sale] setting the tone on the mound. Our offense came alive and we played solid defense behind him.”

— Walt Weiss, Braves Manager

What’s next

The Braves and Royals will continue their series on Saturday, with the Braves looking to build on their opening day success and the Royals hoping to bounce back.

The takeaway

The Braves' dominant performance on opening day, led by their veteran ace Chris Sale and a powerful offensive display, sets them up well for the start of the season under new manager Walt Weiss. Meanwhile, the Royals' struggles on the mound and at the plate raise early concerns about their ability to compete in the AL Central.