Braves edge past Cubs in first game of series, winning 4-1
In a nail-biting encounter, the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves locked horns in the first game of their three-game series on September 15, 2025. The matchup saw a stellar performance from both pitchers, with Bryce Elder of the Cubs and Spencer Strider of the Braves taking centre stage.
Bryce Elder, the Cubs' right-handed pitcher, displayed an impressive outing, working 6 1/3 innings and allowing just one run. Elder's recent form against the Braves has been impressive, with the right-hander having given up one earned run in his last 13 1/3 innings against them, boasting 12 strikeouts and just one walk.
In the seventh inning, the Cubs found themselves in a promising position, with runners at second and third base and only one out. However, Elder managed to retire Shaw and Reese McGuire, avoiding further damage. The Cubs scored one run in the same inning, but Elder's stellar pitching performance kept the Braves at bay.
On the other side, Atlanta's starter, Shota Imanaga, had a rocky start, giving up three runs in the first inning. However, he recovered well, retiring 16 of the final 17 batters he faced, before being lifted after six innings. Tyler Kinley worked a perfect eighth inning for the Braves, while Rasiel Iglesias pitched the ninth inning and earned his 25th save.
The Braves' offence got going in the eighth inning, with Matt Olson homering, his 23rd of the season. Earlier in the game, Ozzie Albies had homered in the first inning.
Looking ahead, the second game of the series will see Cade Horton (9-4, 2.78) of the Cubs face Spencer Strider (5-12, 4.97) of the Braves. Horton is set to start for the Cubs in their next game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
