Sun Aug 31 23:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Braves Hope Waldrep Can Reverse Fortune After Heartbreaking Losses
**Philadelphia, PA -** After two consecutive one-run losses, the Atlanta Braves turn to Hurston Waldrep on Sunday night against the Philadelphia Phillies, hoping the young pitcher can provide a much-needed spark. The game is set for 7:10 p.m. EDT at Citizens Bank Park and will be available on [whatever you use to watch ESPN] and on the radio at 680 AM / 93.7 FM The Fan.
Waldrep’s 2024 debut was a rough one, marked by a high ERA (16.71) across two starts. However, the 2025 season has seen a significant turnaround for the former first-round pick. Over 30 innings, Waldrep has shown improvements, striking out more batters and limiting home runs. While his current 0.90 ERA is unlikely to last, adjustments to his pitch mix, including the addition of a cutter and sinker, and a renewed focus on his curveball, have yielded positive results.
Statcast data suggests that while Waldrep’s whiff rate remains around league average, there’s reason to believe his strikeout rate could increase. The Braves are banking on Waldrep’s newfound confidence and adjusted approach to translate into a quality start, drawing parallels to pitchers like Mike Minor and Kyle Wright who overcame early struggles.
Opposing Waldrep will be Phillies left-hander Jesus Luzardo. Despite a 4.23 ERA, Luzardo’s underlying metrics, like his 3.35 xFIP, indicate he’s pitching better than his surface stats suggest. Luzardo’s high strikeout rate and ability to limit walks, combined with a diverse pitch mix featuring a sweeper and slider, pose a challenge for the Braves lineup. The Braves will look for Sean Murphy and Nick Allen back in the lineup to get back to winning.
After giving up four home runs to a single player in a loss, and with Chris Sale hoping to return to form after dominating on the mound, can the Braves find a way to victory?
First Piper 