Atlanta Braves Ace Chris Sale Accomplishes Impressive Feat in Spring Training Debut

· Yahoo Sports

The Atlanta Braves were defeated 8-1 by the Minnesota Twins in a spring training loss on Sunday. While Atlanta's pitching clearly did not have its best performance, Chris Sale started the game and performed well across his two innings of work. The veteran southpaw allowed two hits but did not surrender a run. He also struck out three hitters. According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com, Sale threw a strike on the first pitch to each batter he faced.

The impressive feat played a significant role in his all-around strong outing. Sure, it was not his best overall performance, but it was a good start for his first appearance of spring training.

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Placing the numbers aside, Sale also passed the eye test. His pitches had plenty of movement and he looked confident on the mound. In fact, he threw some pitches that were simply unhittable.

Video via Rob Friedman:

Sale appears to be poised for another big season in 2026 if he can stay healthy. At 36 years old, there is no denying the fact that Chris Sale is still among the best starting pitchers in the entire sport.

Braves Lose to Twins on Sunday Despite Chris Sale's Strong Performance

Sale's performance was one of the few bright spots in what was an otherwise forgettable game for the Braves. The ball club failed to find much of a rhythm offensively, while the other pitchers endured ups and downs all game long. There were some other strong performances, however.

Prospect JR Ritchie also pitched well, giving Atlanta two shutout innings of work on the mound. Reigning National League Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin had two hits, including a home run. Baldwin led the offense on Sunday.

Slugging first baseman Matt Olson added a double as well. Infielder Luke Waddell also recorded two hits.

Overall, it was a difficult performance for the Braves though. The good news is that wins and losses do not matter in spring training. Still, every player is competitive and they obviously prefer to earn victories -- even in the spring. Atlanta now holds a 1-1 overall record in spring training.

The Braves' next contest of the spring is scheduled for 1:05 PM EST against the Baltimore Orioles. They will then play the Detroit Tigers and Pittsburgh Pirates as the spring moves forward. Atlanta will look to perform at an all-around more consistent level overall as a ball club on Monday.

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