Braves Beat Angels 8-3 Behind Matt Olson's Grand Slam, Big Inning

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025

Los Angeles Angels at Atlanta Braves - Game Recap (July 2, 2025)

ATLANTA -- Matt Olson launched a grand slam as part of a three-hit night, powering the Atlanta Braves to an 8-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday. The Braves exploded for a seven-run sixth inning to take control of the game.

Sean Murphy added a three-run homer, while Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies each collected two hits for Atlanta. Before the game, the Braves received unfortunate injury news with the announcement that right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach was placed on the injured list due to a broken elbow.

Braves left fielder Jurickson Profar made his return after serving an 80-game PED suspension. He went 2 for 4 in his return, including a home run and scoring two runs.

Aaron Bummer (1-1) earned the win in relief, pitching 2 2/3 perfect innings following a start by 20-year-old rookie Didier Fuentes.

For the Angels, center fielder Jo Adell extended his hitting streak to 13 games with a two-run single in the first inning. Jorge Soler hit the 200th home run of his career in the ninth inning.

The turning point came with two outs in the sixth inning. The Braves, trailing 2-0, began their rally when Sean Murphy hit a 406-foot home run to left field off reliever Ryan Zeferjahn, scoring Profar and Albies for a 3-2 lead. Michael Harris II singled, followed by walks issued to Nick Allen and Ronald Acuña Jr., loading the bases. Matt Olson then delivered his ninth career grand slam, a drive to right field that sealed Atlanta's decisive inning.

Angels second baseman Christian Moore exited the game in the sixth inning after injuring his left thumb. The injury occurred when he dove for an Ozzie Albies ground ball and landed awkwardly.

Key Moment

Matt Olson's grand slam traveled 358 feet and came off a 97 mph fastball from Ryan Zeferjahn. It marked the second grand slam for the Braves in just four games, notably following a stretch where the team did not hit one in their first 81 games of the season.

Key Stat

Angels reliever Ryan Zeferjahn faced six batters in the decisive sixth inning and did not record an out. He surrendered two home runs, two singles, and two walks, causing his ERA to climb from 4.78 to 6.19.

Up Next

The Los Angeles Angels and Atlanta Braves conclude their three-game series in Atlanta. Braves right-hander Bryce Elder (2-5, 5.82 ERA) is scheduled to pitch against Angels right-hander José Soriano (5-5, 3.99 ERA).

In summary

The Atlanta Braves defeated the Los Angeles Angels 8-3 on July 2, 2025, powered by a seven-run sixth inning featuring Matt Olson's grand slam and Sean Murphy's three-run homer. Jurickson Profar returned for Atlanta with a home run. Jo Adell extended his hitting streak for the Angels. Injuries in the game included Braves pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach and Angels infielder Christian Moore. The series concludes with a pitching matchup between Bryce Elder and José Soriano.

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