Michael Harris II Powers Braves Over Marlins 7-1 as Jen Pawol Makes MLB Umpire History in Atlanta

Saturday, August 9th, 2025

Atlanta Braves Defeat Miami Marlins 7-1 in Historic First Game of Doubleheader

The Atlanta Braves secured a 7-1 victory over the Miami Marlins in the opening game of Saturday’s doubleheader, a contest marked by both powerful hitting and Major League Baseball history.

Michael Harris II Powers Braves with Three-Run Homer

Michael Harris II had an outstanding game, going 2-for-4 with a double, tallying three RBIs and scoring twice. His three-run home run in the seventh inning, his 11th of the season, broke the game open for Atlanta.

Rookie Hurston Waldrep Impresses on the Mound

Hurston Waldrep, making just his second start of the season for Atlanta, delivered six strong innings. He allowed only four hits, one walk, and one run, while striking out six Marlins batters. Across his two starts, Waldrep has surrendered just two runs over 11 2/3 innings.

Braves Build Early Lead

Ozzie Albies and Eli White contributed RBI singles in the second inning, giving Atlanta an early 2-0 advantage. Drake Baldwin also added to the offensive output, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs.

Marlins’ Rookies Take Center Stage

Miami’s lineup featured six rookie position players and a rookie starting pitcher in Ryan Gusto, making his Marlins debut after being acquired from Houston. Gusto pitched six innings, allowing three runs. The Marlins’ lone run came from a Xavier Edwards RBI single in the sixth inning.

MLB Makes History with Jen Pawol as Umpire

The game entered the record books as Jen Pawol became the first female umpire to officiate a Major League Baseball game, working at first base. She is set to work third base in the second game and will take home plate in the series finale.

Key Moment: Profar’s Leaping Catch

Left fielder Jurickson Profar made a highlight-reel defensive play in the fourth inning, robbing Agustín Ramírez of a home run with a spectacular leap at the wall. Waldrep was visibly impressed, reacting in disbelief as Profar kept the Marlins off the scoreboard.

Key Stat: Rookie-Heavy Marlins

The Marlins started six rookies in their batting order, in addition to rookie pitcher Ryan Gusto, highlighting the team’s youth movement.

What’s Next in the Doubleheader

Game two of the doubleheader will feature Miami’s Sandy Alcantara (6-10, 6.44 ERA) facing off against Atlanta’s Erick Fedde (3-12, 5.32 ERA), who will be making his third appearance for the Braves since joining from the Cardinals.

In summary

The Atlanta Braves continued their strong season with a 7-1 win over the Miami Marlins in the opening game of a doubleheader. Michael Harris II’s three-run home run and Hurston Waldrep’s dominant pitching set the tone, while Jen Pawol made history as MLB’s first female umpire. The Marlins leaned heavily on their rookie talent, but Atlanta's experience and key plays, such as Jurickson Profar's home run-robbing catch, secured the victory. Fans can look forward to another exciting matchup as the doubleheader continues.

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