Braves Hold On Against Lookouts: W, 9-6

The Braves once again put a big lead on the scoreboard with a six-run 3rd inning against the Lookouts and this time the bullpen held on for a 9-6 win in front of 2,756 fans at AT&T Field. With the win the Braves (33-20) increased their lead in the South Division to 4 games over the Suns and 5 over the Biscuits. They also reduced their magic number down to 14 to clinch the first half with 17 games remaining. The Lookouts (23-30) had their 3-game win streak halted but remained 5.0 games back in the North Division race.

Jo-Jo Reyes (6-1, 4.18 ERA), had an on-and-off performance. He gave up a two-run homer in the first and seventh inning while striking out 10 in the 2nd through the 6th. Reyes picked up his team-leading sixth win of the season and won for the 5th time in his last 6 games while moving into a tie for 2nd in wins in the Southern League. Reyes also doubled and scored in the six-run 3rd inning. Jose Ascanio entered in the 7th and gave up a two-out RBI single to trim the lead to three before striking out three of the last 4 batters he faced. Joey Devine gave up a bloop single and hit a batter but still struck out the side to notch his League Leading 12th save of the season. The Braves struck out a season high 16 batters as each batter in the lineup struck out at least once.

The Braves chased James Avery (5-5, 5.31 ERA) from the game after he gave up all 9 runs on 10 hits while giving up 2 two-run homeruns to Brandon Jones (9th) and Mark Jurich (2nd). The Lookouts bullpen tossed 5 scoreless innings while striking out 8 Braves and stranding 6 baserunners.

Brent Lillibridge was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished 2-for-4 at the plate with 3 RBIs on his triple in the 3rd inning. He also singled and was hit by a pitch to lead the team in that category (5).

The Braves will continue their 5-game series in Chattanooga, Tennessee at AT&T Field as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts, the AA Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, in the fourth game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 5:15pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 6:15pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send RHP Charlie Morton (5-1, 3.98 ERA) to the hill in search of his 3rd win, while the Lookouts will counter with RHP Carlos Fisher (1-1, 1.17 ERA) who is looking for his second victory as well. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive AT&T Field frequency - 101.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:57 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,756

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 16-12 on the road.
* The Braves improve to 7-5 in three-run games.
* The Braves improve to 27-12 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 19-8 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 22-8 when scoring 4 or more runs.
* The Braves pitchers set a new season high in strikeouts (16).
* The Braves improve to 28-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves batters set a new season high in hits in a game (17).
* The Braves batters set a new season high in extra base hits in a game (8).
* The Braves registered 16 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $393 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Mark Jurich -2 games (5-8, .625)
* Ray Serrano - 4 games (5-12, .417)
* Mike Rozema - 3 games (5-13, .385)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games (3-10, .300)
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games (4-13, .308)
* Carl Loadenthal - 5 games (9-20, .450)
* Diory Hernandez - 2 games (2-7, .286)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Josh Burrus - 2 games (3-8, .375)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Van Pope (0-9) - 2nd innings single
* Matt Esquivel (0-10) - 1st inning single
* Brandon Jones (0-4) - 1st inning 2-run Homerun

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Greg Creek (0-6)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Bullpen Blows Game Two: L, 9-8

The Chattanooga Lookouts posted a four-run 7th inning to steal Game Two from the Braves in front of 2,658 fans at AT&T Field. With the loss the Braves (32-20) had their lead reduced in the South Division to 3 games over the Suns and 4 over the Biscuits. The Lookouts (23-29) ran their current winning streak to 3 in a row after suffering a season-high five game losing streak.

James Parr (0-0, 9.00 ERA), tossed 5 innings in his AA debut while going 2-for-3 at the plate with 2 RBIs. The Braves spotted Parr a 6-0 lead after three innings. In the bottom of the 3rd he began to struggle as he gave up an RBI single and three-run homerun with two outs on the board. He wound up giving up five runs in his five innings of work but struck out six and avoided walking a batter. He left the game with an 8-5 lead.

Joe Winkelsas entered the game in the sixth and retired the side in order. In the top of the seventh he picked up a lead-off walk and stayed on the bases the whole inning as the Braves were unable to score. In the bottom of the seventh the fatigue seemed to have set in as he gave up a leadoff triple to Drew Anderson. Luis Bolivar brought him in on a ground out to Lillibridge. Then the inning fell apart for "Wink" as he gave up a walk, two doubles and a single as the Lookouts completed the comeback.

Carl Loadenthal was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished 3-for-5 at the plate with 3 singles and two runs scored. He reached base safely in 5 of his 6 plate appearances.

Camilo Vazquez, (3-5, 4.69 ERA) failed to make it past the 4th inning as he gave up 7 of the 8 runs on nine hits and two walks. Carlos Guevara pitche the ninth as he picked up his 5th save of the season and his second in as many nights.

The Braves will continue their 5-game series in Chattanooga, Tennessee at AT&T Field as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts, the AA Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, in the third game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 5:15pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 6:15pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (5-1, 3.98 ERA) to the hill in search of his team-leading 6th win, while the Lookouts will counter with RHP James Avery (5-4, 4.23 ERA) who is looking for his sixth victory as well. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive AT&T Field frequency - 101.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:59 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,658

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 15-12 on the road.
* The Braves fall to 26-12 when scoring first.
* The Braves fall to 21-8 when scoring 4 or more runs.
* The Braves fall to 7-1 when scoring in 5 or more innings..
* The Braves fall to 2-18 when trailing after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 7 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $377 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Josh Burrus - 2 games (3-8, .375)
* Mike Rozema - 2 games (4-8, .500)
* Ray Serrano - 4 games (5-12, .417)
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games (2-9, .222)
* Carl Loadenthal - 4 games (7-16, .438)
* Diory Hernandez - 2 games (2-7, .286)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Mike Rozema (0-13) - 1st inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-9)
* Brandon Jones (0-4)
* Matt Esquivel (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* RHP Paul Bush placed on the Disabled List.
* RHP James Parr promoted fron Myrtle Beach.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Lookouts Take Game One, L, 2-1

Four Lookout pitchers combined to baffle the Southern League Leading MS Braves and take Game 1 of their 5-game series in 2-1 fashion on Memorial Day and in front of 5,359 fans at AT&T Field. With the loss the Braves (32-19) had their lead reduced in the South Division to 4 games over the Suns. The Lookouts (22-29) still trail the Huntsville Stars by 6 games in the North Division.

Brad Nelson (2-0, 3.00 ERA), tossed 5 innings while giving up 1 run on 3 hits, 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Nelson retired 10 of the last 11 batters he faced. Paul Bush made his MS Braves debut this season tossing the 6th with two strikeouts. The Braves staff still leads the league in home runs allowed (19), ERA (2.94) Saves (17), and they are tied in shutouts (5).

Mike Rozema was the Brave Player of the Game as he finished 3-for-3 at the plate while raising his season average up to .308 in 13 games. Mike also picked up 4 infield assists.

Richie Gardner, (0-1, 0.00 ERA) making his second AA start on the season, danced around three walks in the first two innings thanks in large part to Ryan Hanigan as he threw out two baserunners to lead off the ballgame. Calvin Medlock and Carlos Guevara combined to retire the final six batters of the game while Guevara picked up his 4th save of the season.

The Braves will continue their 5-game series in Chattanooga, Tennessee at AT&T Field as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts, the AA Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, in the second game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 5:15pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 6:15pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send RHP James Parr (0-0, 0.00 ERA) to the hill in his AA debut, while the Lookouts will counter with LHP Camilo Vasquez (3-5, 4.18 ERA) who is looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive AT&T Field frequency - 101.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:23 --- ATTENDANCE: 5,359

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 15-11 on the road.
* The Braves fall to 4-7 when scoring 2 or fewer runs.
* The Braves fall to 6-8 when their opponent scores first.
* The Braves fall to 2-17 when trailing after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $370 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Ray Serrano - 4 games (5-12, .417)
* Carl Loadenthal - 3 games (4-11, .364)
* Diory Hernandez - 2 games (2-7, .286)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Van Pope - 2 games (2-6, .333)
* Greg Creek - 2 games (2-6, .333)
* Matt Esquivel - 5 games (8-21, .381)
* Clint Sammons - 4 games (5-16, .313)
* Brandon Jones - 2 games (308, .375)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Mike Rozema (0-5) - 3-3 (3 singles)

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Mark Jurich (0-13)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Fall Apart in Finale: L, 4-3

The Braves had a string of 16 scoreless innings pitched against Montgomery snapped in a four-run eighth inning rally as the Biscuits salvaged the series finale in front of 2,697 fans at Trustmark Park. With the loss the Braves (32-18) had their lead in the South Division stay at 5 games over the Suns and Biscuits (27-23) in the South Division.

Joe Winkelsas (0-1, 0.51 ERA), had his personal run of 16.2 scoreless innings halted as well as he took the loss while giving up all four runs (1 earned) in the eighth inning rally. The rally by Montgomery spoiled a great outing by Kelvin Villa (3-3, 4.62 ERA) as he tossed seven scoreless frames while scattering 6 hits on 3 strikeouts and he did not issue a single walk. The Braves staff still leads the league in home runs allowed (19), ERA (2.95) Saves (17), and they are tied in shutouts (5).

Kelvin Villa was the Brave Player of the Game as he finished with his best outing of the season lasting 7 innings while scattering 6 hits and 3 strikeouts. He never allowed a baserunner past first base, thanks to a double play in the 3rd and a caught stealing in the 4th inning.

Biscuits starter Mike Prochaska, (1-4, 4.63 ERA) worked around three walks and was able to strand 5 Braves on the bases and induce a 5-4-3 double play which ended a possible big inning for the Braves int he 2nd inning.

The Braves will start up a 5-game series in Chattanooga, Tennessee on Memorial Day at AT&T Field as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts, the AA Affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, in the first game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 5:00pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 5:15pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send RHP Brad Nelson (2-0, 3.32 ERA) to the hill in his first start this season, while the Lookouts will counter with RHP Richie Gardner (0-1, 0.00 ERA) who is making his second start. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive AT&T Field frequency - 101.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:29 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,697

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 17-8 at home.
* The Braves fall to 8-5 in day games.
* The Braves fall to 26-11 when scoring first.
* The Braves fall to 28-12 when scoring 3 or more runs.
* The Braves fall to 2-16 when trailing after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 5 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $364 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Van Pope - 2 games (2-6, .333)
* Greg Creek - 2 games (2-6, .333)
* Ray Serrano - 4 games (5-12, .417)
* Matt Esquivel - 5 games (8-21, .381)
* Brandon Jones - 2 games (308, .375)
* Clint Sammons - 4 games (5-16, .313)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Mike Rozema (0-5) - 3-3 (3 singles)

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Mike Rozema (0-4)
* Mark Jurich (0-12)
* Brent Lillibridge (0-5)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

MS Braves Shore Up Bullpen

The Mississippi Braves announce that RHPs Paul Bush and Joe Winkelsas have both been activated from the disabled list and assigned to AA Mississippi. Both were in AAA Richmond before being placed on the disabled list. RHP Tyler Bullock has been reassigned to High-A Myrtle Beach.

Bush was originally assigned to start the year in Mississippi, but was sent to AAA Richmond before opening day. He was 1-0 with one save and an ERA of 1.74 through five games in Richmond. He allowed two runs through 10.1 innings of work.

Winkelsas was 1-0 with an ERA of 3.97 through five games in AAA Richmond. He allowed six runs, five earned, through 11.1 innings pitched. In his previous stint in Mississippi earlier this year, Winkelsas did not allow an earned run through 16.2 innings pitched. His 16.1 consecutive scoreless innings pitched streak still stands as the longest scoreless innings pitched streak for the M-Braves this year.

Bullock was 0-0 with an ERA of 6.00 after allowing three runs, two earned, through 3.0 innings pitched.

by
Nick Skinner

Braves Barely Blank Biscuits: W, 3-0

Three Braves pitchers combined to shutout the Biscuits and clinch the series against Montgomery in 3-0 fashion and in front of 4,371 fans at Trustmark Park. Brent Lillibridge belted his 3rd homerun of the season to start the scoring in the first, while Joey Devine walked the bases loaded with two outs in the 9th before ending the game on his second strikeout as he picked up his Southern League leading 11th save. With the win the Braves (32-17) extend their lead in the South Division to 5 games over the Suns. The Biscuits (26-23) trail by 6 games, BayBears by 7 and Barons by 10.5. The Braves are now 17-7 at Trustmark Park this season and have now won 8 of the first 10 series.

Lefty Francisely Bueno (2-2, 3.09 ERA), tossed 6 scoreless innings while scattering 5 hits and registering 4 strikeouts. Jose Ascanio pitched 2 innings while giving up two hits and striking out three. Devine's three walks in the 9th were the only walks issued in the game as he also tossed a pair of strikeouts including the game-ending K to Jason Pridie. The Braves staff still leads the league in home runs allowed (19), ERA (2.99) Saves (17), and they are tied in shutouts (5).

Brent Lillibridge was the Brave Player of the Game as Brent finished 2-for-4 at the plate with with his 3rd homerun of the season and a 3rd inning single. Lillibridge turned an impressive double play to end the 1st and a sensational assist in the 8th to keep the Biscuits off the board. Loadenthal, Jones and Sammons all collected two-hit games.

Biscuits lefty Jon Barratt (0-3, 2.84 ERA) was charged with the loss as he scattered 9 Braves hits while inducing 2 ground ball double plays and a lineout double play. Derek Feldkamp tossed the final two innings against the Braves striking out three and giving up one hit.

The Braves will wrap up their 10-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the final game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 12:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 1:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Kelvin Villa (3-3, 5.36 ERA) to the hill in search of his 4th win, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP Mike Prochaska (1-4, 4.87 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:28 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,371

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 17-7 at home.
* The Braves improve to 24-13 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 26-10 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 18-7 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 27-11 when scoring 3 or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 27-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 9 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $359 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Greg Creek - 2 games (2-6, .333)
* Ray Serrano - 3 games (3-8, .375)
* Matt Esquivel - 4 games (7-17, .412)
* Clint Sammons - 4 games (5-16, .313)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Josh Burrus - 4 games (7-13, .538)
* Diory Hernandez - 6 games (12-26, .462)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Carl Loadenthal (0-7) - 5th inning single
* Brent Lillibridge (0-7) - 1st inning Homerun

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Josh Burrus (0-3)
* Mike Rozema (0-5)
* Mark Jurich (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Walk Over Biscuits: W, 14-5

A night after both bullpens were depelted in an extra inning affair the Braves got 7 innings from starter Jo-Jo Reyes while the Biscuits committed two costly errors and issued a season high 10 walks to help the Braves to a 14-5 win Friday night in front of 4,058 fans at Trustmark Park. With the win the Braves (31-17) maintain their lead in the South Division at 4 games over the Suns and now 5 games over the Biscuits (26-22). The Braves are now 16-7 at Trustmark Park this season.

Lefty Jo-Jo Reyes (5-1, 3.98 ERA), became the first Braves pitcher to 5 wins on the season as he lasted 7 innings and dodged 5 walks while fanning 6 Biscuits. A night after Michael Nix struggled he came back to toss 2 innings of relief scattering two bloop singles while surrendering a solo homerun to John Jaso in the 9th. The Braves staff still leads the league in home runs allowed (19) and ERA (3.05)

Jo-Jo Reyes, Ray Serrano and Diory Hernandez were the Braves Player of the Games as Reyes picked up the win, Serrano finished 1-for-1 at the plate with 3 walks and two runs scored while chipping in an RBI single, while Hernandez finished 4-for-5 (second 4-hit game of the season) at the plate with 1 RBIs and a stolen base. He also extended his hit streak to 6 games on the season. Josh Burrus had a great night at the plate collecting a 4 RBIs on an RBI single in the 6th, a bases-loaded walk in the 7th, and a two-run single in the 8th.

The Biscuits spoiled a great outing by James Houser, Jr. (3-0, 2.39 ERA) as he allowed just two infield singles to Hernandez while giving up 3 runs (1 earned) on 4 walks. Jeremy Flanagan (3-2, 4.97 ERA) was charged with the Blown Save and the loss.

The Braves will continue their 10-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the fourth game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Francisely Bueno (1-2, 3.72 ERA) to the hill in search of his 2nd win, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP John B arratt (0-2, 3.26 ERA) who is looking for his first victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 3:05 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,058

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 16-7 at home.
* The Braves improve to 23-13 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 14-5 in errorless games.
* The Braves improve to 25-10 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 4-0 on Friday night home games.
* The Braves improve to 21-7 when scoring 4 or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 26-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 9 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $350 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Josh Burrus - 4 games (7-13, .538)
* Ray Serrano - 3 games (3-8, .375)
* Matt Esquivel - 3 games (6-13, .462)
* Clint Sammons - 3 games (3-13, .231)
* Diory Hernandez - 6 games (12-26, .462)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brent Lillibridge - 4 games (7-19, .368)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Greg Creek (0-10) - 6th inning single
* Van Pope (0-12) - 7th inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Mark Jurich (0-10)
* Carl Loadenthal (0-5)
* Brent Lillibridge (0-7)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* Joey Devine returned from Atlanta.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Fall in Extra Innings: L, 7-6 (12)

Jason Pridie broke a 6-6 tie in the 12th inning with an infield single that scored Shaun Cumberland to give the Biscuits a 7-6 win over the Braves in front of 3,108 fans at Trustmark Park. With the loss the Braves (30-17) had their lead in the South Division reduced to 4 games over the Suns and Biscuits (26-21). The Braves are now 15-7 at Trustmark Park this season and 11-4 in one-run games.

Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.44 ERA), had his second worst outing of the season as he gave up 6 runs (5 earned) on 3 walks and 4 strikeouts while failing to get out of the 5th inning. He also surrendered his 2nd homerun on the season to Matt Spring (Grand Slam - 4th inning) who was making his first ever AA start. The bullpen was sensational in the 5th through the 11th innings as Bullock, Morton and Schreiber combined to go 6 1/3 while allowing 2 hits and working around 6 walks. In Schreiber's first inning (9th) he faced a bases-loaded one-out situation and retired John Jaso on a pop out to Lillibridge and struck out Chris Nowak swinging. Michael Nix (1-2, 2.60 ERA) was charged with the loss in the 12th.

Diory Hernandez was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished 2-for-6 at the plate with 2 RBIs. He also extended his hit streak to 5 games on the season.

Biscuits closer Dale Thayer (3-0, 2.25 ERA) tossed the final three innings to pick up his 3rd win after the Biscuits bullpen blew the save (Henderson) in the 7th inning.

The Braves will continue their 10-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the third game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (4-1, 3.80 ERA) to the hill in search of his team high 5th win, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP James Houser, Jr. (3-0, 2.48 ERA) who is looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 3:54 (longest game of season) --- ATTENDANCE: 3,108

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 15-7 at home.
* The Braves fall to 22-13 in night games.
* The Braves fall to 11-4 in one-run games.
* The Braves fall to 24-10 when scoring first.
* The Braves fall to 6-9 when allowing a homerun.
* The Braves registered 7 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $341 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Josh Burrus - 3 games (5-9, .556)
* Ray Serrano - 2 games (2-7, .286)
* Matt Esquivel - 2 games (4-9, .444)
* Clint Sammons - 3 games (3-13, .231)
* Brent Lillibridge - 4 games (7-19, .368)
* Diory Hernandez - 5 games (8-21, .381)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Brandon Jones (0-14) - 11th inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-10)
* Greg Creek (0-9)
* Mark Jurich (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Halt 3-Game Slide: W, 4-3

The Braves used the long ball Wednesday night as Matt Esquivel and Clint Sammons both belted homeruns to lift the Braves 4-3 over the Biscuits in front of 2,765 at Trustmark Park. With the series opening win the Braves (30-16) pushed their lead in the South Division back to 5 games over the Suns and Biscuits (25-21). They also ended a 3-game losing skid while stopping the Biscuits 3-game win streak in the process. The Braves are now 15-6 at Trustmark Park this season and 11-3 in one-run games.

Lance Cormier (1-1, 4.50 ERA), making his 2nd Rehab start, was sensational as he scattered four hits in five innings of work while striking out four on just 67 pitches. Brad Nelson retired 6 of the first 8 he faced before giving up three singles to start the 8th inning. Jose Ascanio entered with the bases loaded and got a lineout to left by Brooks Badeaux and a sacrifice fly by Reid Brignac to get two quick outs. Evan Longoria followed with a two-out two-run double to bring the Biscuits to within one. Ascanio settled down to retire the final four batters he faced for his 3rd save of the season.

Clint Sammons collected his first AA Homerun on the first pitch of the 5th inning as he bounced one off the foul pole down the left field line. Josh Burrus continued to see the ball well collecting a pair of singles and a pair of walks.

Matt Esquivel was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished 2-for-4 at the plate with a three-run bomb into the Braves bullpen in the 3rd and a triple in the 6th. He now leads the Southern League with 12 HR and 41 RBIs.

Biscuits starter Chris Seddon (3-3, 4.65 ERA) made two mistakes that cost him with the two balls Esquivel and Sammons hit out of the park. He scattered three other hits while giving up four walks and striking out five. Only one walk he issued came in to score.

The Braves will continue their 10-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the second game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.04 ERA) to the hill in search of his team high 5th win, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP Mike Prochaska (1-4, 4.87 ERA) who is looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:29 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,765

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 15-6 at home.
* The Braves improve to 17-7 with a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 22-12 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 3-1 following a off day.
* The Braves improve to 11-3 in one-run games.
* The Braves improve to 13-5 in errorless games.
* The Braves improve to 8-2 in the first game of a series.
* The Braves improve to 25-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves improve to 24-9 when their opponent scores first.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $325 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Josh Burrus - 2 games (4-7, .571)
* Ray Serrano - 2 games (2-7, .286)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games (2-7, .286)
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games (6-14, .429)
* Diory Hernandez - 4 games (6-15, .400)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Matt Esquivel (0-5) - 3rd inning 3-run Homerun

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-10)
* Greg Creek (0-6)
* Mark Jurich (0-4)
* Brandon Jones (0-9)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* RHP Zach Schreiber returned from AAA Richmond

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Lose First Home Series: L, 4-3

The Braves rally came up one run short as they lost their first Southern League Home Series in front of 2,667 at Trustmark Park. With the loss the Braves (29-16) had their lead in the South Division trimmed to 4 games over the Suns and Biscuits. The Braves are now 14-6 at Trustmark Park this season.

Braves starter Kelvin Villa (3-3, 5.36 ERA) made two mistakes as Issmael Salas and Josh Kroeger belted a 3-run and solo homerun respectively to give the Smokies a 4-1 lead. The Braves fought their way back with a run in the 5th and in the 9th but Brandon Jones struck out looking with the tying run at 3rd base to end the game.

Diory Hernandez made his return to Trustmark Park with a 2-for-4 performance while the top two in the order (Loadenthal, and Lillibridge) combined to go 6-for-9 at the plate with a run scored, 2 RBIs and a walk. The other 7 Braves who made plate appearances combined to go 1-for-22 at the plate.

Carl Loadenthal was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished 3-for-4 at the plate with two stolen bases (Leads the League with 16 now).

The Braves will enjoy an off day on Tuesday and then continue their 10-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the first game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air starting at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send RHP Lance Cormier (0-1, 12.00 ERA) to the hill in second ML Rehab Start, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP Chris Seddon (3-2, 4.50 ERA) who is looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:44 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,667

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 14-6 at home.
* The Braves fall to 10-3 in one-run games.
* The Braves fall to 5-4 in the last game of a series.
* The Braves fall to 6-7 when their opponent scores first.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $319 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Ray Serrano - 2 games (2-7, .286)
* Diory Hernandez - 3 games (5-11, .455)
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games (5-10, .500)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Carl Loadenthal (0-6) - 3rd inning single
* Clint Sammons - (0-13) - 9th inning double

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-6)
* Mark Jurich (0-4)
* Matt Esquivel (0-8)
* Brandon Jones (0-7)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* INF J.C. Holt promoted to AAA Richmond
* RHP Zach Schreiber promoted to AAA Richmond
* INF Diory Hernandez promoted from A Myrtle Beach

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Give One Away to Smokies: L, 8-5

The Braves squandered a 4-0 lead as the Smokies came from behind to defeat the Braves 8-5 and and even up their Southern League Series in front of 2,679 at Trustmark Park. With the loss the Braves (29-15) had their lead in the South Division remain at 5 games over the Suns and Biscuits. The Braves are now 14-5 at Trustmark Park this season.

Braves starter Dan Smith (4-2, 1.94 ERA) was the victim of a poor bullpen performance for the second time this season. Charlie Morton was charged with the blown save and loss as he gave up a 3-run triple to Josh Kroeger and RBI singles to Casey McGehee and Jose Cortes in the five-run 7th inning.

The Braves did have some offense to report as Ray Serrano and Mike Rozema belted their first home runs of the season in the 2nd and 8th innings respectively. The biggest blow after the 5-run 7th was in the 8th as Brandon Jones and Matt Esquivel were retired on two pitches with runners at 1st and 2nd with one out. J.C. Holt was also productive at the plate as he finished 2-for-3 but reached base all 5 times with two singles a fielder's choice and two walks.

Dan Smith was the Braves Player of the Game as he lasted 5 1/3 innings, giving up one run while limiting the Smokies to 4 hits on a season high 5 walks and 6 strikeouts.

The Braves will wrap up a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in the rubber match series finale of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will air briefly at 7:00pm (CT) due to the Rebel Yell Hotline. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Kelvin Villa (3-2, 5.26 ERA) to the hill in search of his 4th win, while the Smokies will counter with RHP Sean Gallagher (5-2, 3.50 ERA) who is looking for his league-tying sixth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 3:28 (longest 9 inning game of season) --- ATTENDANCE: 2,679

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 14-5 at home.
* The Braves fall to 8-4 in day games.
* The Braves fall to 23-9 when scoring first.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $313 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Ray Serrano - 2 games (2-7, .286)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brandon Jones - 5 games - (9-25, .360)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Matt Esquivel - (0-6) - 1st inning RBI single
* Greg Creek - (0-7) - 3rd inning single
* Brent Lillibridge - (0-6) - 2nd inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Carl Loadenthal (0-6)
* Clint Sammons (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Bamboozled by Smokies: L, 6-1

Mark Holliman dominated the Braves on a night when Lance Cormier made a Major League Rehab appearance as the Smokies won 6-1 in Game 3 of their Southern League Series in front of 4,940 at Trustmark Park. With the loss the Braves (29-14) had their lead in the South Division fall to just 5 games over the Suns. The Braves are now 14-4 at Trustmark Park this season.

Mark Holliman (6-1, 1.17 ERA) carried a no-hitter into the 6th inning before Francisely Bueno broke it up with a single up the middle. There was controversy as Bueno was nearly retired on a 1-2 pitch as the home plate umpire started his strike out motion but halted it at the halfway point. Holliman allowed a lead off walk to J.C. Holt and then proceeded to retire the next 16 batters before the Bueno single. The Braves avoided being shutout as they got an RBI double from Brandon Jones in the 9th scoring Lillibridge who had reached on an error.

Brandon Jones was the Braves Player of the Game as he picked up the only run producing hit in the 9th inning off of reliever Geoffrey Jones.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in the Fourth Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 12:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 1:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Dan Smith (4-2, 1.97 ERA) to the hill in search of his 5th win, while the Smokies will counter with RHP Donny Veal (2-4, 5.84 ERA) who is looking for his third victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:13 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,940

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 14-4 at home.
* The Braves fall to 21-11 in night games.
* The Braves fall to 6-6 when their opponenet scores first.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $313 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Brandon Jones - 5 games - (9-25, .360)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* J.C. Holt - 9 games - (14-38, .368)
* Greg Creek - 3 games - (3-14, .214)
* Carl Loadenthal - 2 games - (3-8, .375)
* Brent Lillibridge - 5 games - (8-22, .364)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Van Pope (0-10) - 8th inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Matt Esquivel - (0-6)
* Clint Sammons (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Knock Smokies From First: W, 4-3

For the second night in a row Brandon Jones drove in the winning run with
a single to right field as the Braves knocked off the Smokies 4-3 in Game
2 of their Southern League Series. With the win, the Braves (29-13)
knocked the Smokies (20-20) from 1st place in the North Division in front
of a Friday night crowd of 4,731 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (29-13)
held onto their lead in the South Division of 6 games over the Suns. The
Braves are now 14-3 at Trustmark Park this season.

The Braves started their scoring in the 1st inning as Tennessee was shaky
defensively. With two outs and runners at the corners, Mark Jurich flew
out harmlessly to center field. Instead of being called out, Jurich was
awarded first base due to catcher's interference loading the bases for
Carl Loadenthal. Loadenthal then singled to short bringing Lillibridge and
a hustling Esquivel in to score the Braves first two runs of the game. The
Braves have now outscored their opponents 32-11 in the 1st inning.

Just like in Game 1 the Braves starter - Jo-Jo Reyes (4-1, 3.80 ERA) was
not his usual self as he allowed 7 walks (season high) and only struck out
four. He did finish 2-for-2 at the plate with the first RBI for a Braves
pitcher this season, but he failed to make it out of the 4th inning. The
Braves bullpen was sensational (just like in Game 1) as Brad Nelson tossed
4 scoreless innings of relief to pick up his 2nd win while Jose Ascanio
tossed two innings for his second save of the season. The bullpen retired
14 of the final 18 batters of the game. The Braves finished with 11 hits
and stranded 14 base-runners while going 3-for-10 with runners in scoring
position while the Smokies finished 1-for-10 in the same category.

Brad Nelson was the Braves Player of the Game as he picked up his second
win of the season. He came in with a runner on in the 4th inning and gave
up a bunt single to Cates followed by a walk to Fox to load the bases. The
run scored (charged to Reyes) on a sacrifice fly by Casey McGehee. Nelson
allowed only two hits the rest of the way in his final 3 innings of work.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at
Trustmark Park as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, the AA Affiliate of
the Chicago Cubs, in the Third Game of their Southern League Series. The
Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 6:05pm
(CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled
to send RHP Lance Cormier (0-0, 0.00 ERA) to the hill in a Major League
Rehab Start, while the Smokies will counter with League ERA Leader and
former Ole Miss Rebel RHP Mark Holliman (5-1, 1.37 ERA) who is looking for
his league best sixth victory.

GAME TIME: 3:07 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,731

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 14-3 at home.
* The Braves improve to 21-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 10-2 in one-run games.
* The Braves improve to 23-8 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 24-0 when leading after 8 innings.
* The Braves improve to 23-7 when not allowing a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 19-5 when scoring four or more runs.

Braves Top Smokies in 9th: W, 3-2

In a game that featured two first place teams, the Mississippi Braves stayed hot at home with a thrilling 3-2 walk-off win in front of an announced Thursday night crowd of 4,010 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (28-13) held onto their lead in the South Division of 6 games over the Suns and Biscuits. The Smokies (20-19) had their two-game winning streak halted. The Braves are now 13-3 at Trustmark Park this season.

Brandon Jones drove in the winning run to deliver his second walk-off hit of the season (Had a walk-off Homerun against Carolina on April 11th). The Braves started their scoring in the 5th inning as J.C. Holt picked up his 2nd RBI of the season with a single to right field. The Smokies responded with 4 straight hits off of Matt Harrison in the 6th inning to score two and chase Harrison from the game. The Braves bullpen (Ascanio, Schreiber, Devine) retired 10 of the remaining 11 batters in the game. The Braves finished with 13 hits and stranded 11 base-runners while going 3-for-11 with runners in scoring position while the Smokies finished 1-for-5 in the same category.

Braves starter Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.04 ERA) was not his usual self as he allowed 3 walks (ties a season high) and only struck out four but was the beneficiary of two double plays. He now leads the team in ground ball double plays induced (8). Zach Schreiber worked around a two-out double by Jake Fox (his 3rd of the game) and Joey Devine tossed a perfect 9th inning to pick up his second win of the season.

Brandon Jones was the Braves Player of the Game as he picked up his second walk-off hit of the season. He finished 3-for-4 at the plate with 3 singles and an RBI.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in the Second Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (4-1, 3.45 ERA) to the hill in search of his league best fifth win, while the Smokies will counter with RHP Kevin Hart (2-4, 6.87 ERA) who is looking for his third victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:51 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,010

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 13-3 at home.
* The Braves improve to 20-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 22-8 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 4-0 when tied after 6 innings.
* The Braves improve to 7-2 in the first game of a series.
* The Braves improve to 22-7 when not allowing a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 3-1 in the first game of a homestand.
* The Braves improve to 24-8 when scoring three or more runs.
* The Braves registered 8 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $299 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 8 games - (12-33, .364)
* Josh Burrus - 2 games - (2-7, .286)
* Greg Creek - 3 games - (3-14, .214)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games - (4-9, .444)
* Brandon Jones - 3 games - (7-14, .500)
* Brent Lillibridge - 4 games - (7-17, .412)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Mark Jurich - 4 games - (7-17, .412) - (0-1, PH)
* Matt Esquivel - 5 games - (9-21, .429) - (0-2, RF)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Mike Rozema (0-11) - 5th inning double

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-8)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* RHP Tyler Bullock was promoted from High-A Myrtle Beach.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Barons Finally Solve Braves: L, 6-4

It took the Birmingham Barons 10 games to finally pick up their first victory over the Southern League Leading Mississippi Braves as they came from a 3-0 deficit to halt a 9-game losing streak to the Braves. An announced crowd of 3.979 at Regions Park. The Braves (27-13) held onto thei lead in the South Division of 6 games over the Suns and Biscuits. The Barons (18-22) ended a four game skid to move to 9 games behind the Braves.

The Braves started their scoring in the 1st inning as Matt Esquivel belted his League Leading 11th Homerun and 36th RBI on a shot to straight away center field. He followed that with an RBI double to bring in Brandon Jones as he picked up his 2nd 4 RBI game of the season. Carl Loadenthal had his 20-game hitting streak come to an end with a 0-for-3 performance.

Braves starter Kelvin Villa (3-2, 5.26 ERA) was staked to a 3-0 lead but gave up 4 runs over the first two innings to let the Barons back in the ballgame. He settled down retiring 10 of the last 12 batters he faced. Charlie Morton relieved Villa and allowed a run on two hits in the 6th. A rain delay of about 30 minutes didn't slow him down as he struck out the first batter after the game resumed. Zach Schreiber tossed the 9th inning as he gave up a leadoff double to Donny Lucy who then scored on a sacrifice fly by Jason Bourgeois. The Braves ninth inning rally fell short as J.C. Holt walked to lead off the frame. Brandon Jones then singled him over to second base before Matt Esquivel flew out to the wall in dead center for the second out and Greg Creek flew out to the warning track in left to end the game.

The Braves finished 4-for-16 with runners in scoring position while the Barons finished 3-for-8 in the same category. The Braves continued to get chances but just couldn't capitalize on them.

Matt Esquivel was the Braves Player of the Game as he launched his 11th homerun of the season along with an RBI double to lift his total to 37 on the season (one shy of his total last year - 68 games). He drove in all 4 runs for the Braves.

The Braves will start up a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in the First Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.02 ERA) to the hill in search of his league best fifth win, while the Smokies will counter with RHP Justin Berg (1-2, 6.43 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:35 (:30 delay)--- ATTENDANCE: 5,665

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves ifall to 8-3 in day games.
* The Braves fall to 15-10 on the road.
* The Braves fall to 21-8 when scoring first.
* The Braves fall to 16-6 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 18-5 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves registered 5 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $291 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 7 games - (10-29, .345)
* Greg Creek - 2 games - (2-10, .200)
* Mark Jurich - 4 games - (7-17, .412)
* Matt Esquivel - 5 games - (9-21, .429)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games - (4-9, .444)
* Brandon Jones - 2 games - (4-10, .400)
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (5-14, .357)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Carl Loadenthal - 20 games - (29-78, .372)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Ray Serrano (0-15) - 2 inning double

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Van Pope (0-8)
* Mike Rozema (0-10)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Shutout Barons Again: W, 7-0

The Braves picked up their second shutout of the Barons this season while winning their 9th straight game over Birmingham, 7-0, in front of an announced crowd of 3.979 at Regions Park. The Braves (27-12) pushed their lead in the South Division up to 6 games over the Jacksonville Suns (largest lead this season). The Barons (17-22) dropped to 10 games behind the Braves. The Braves won 7 of their last 8 since breaking out of a season-long four game losing skid.

Braves starter Dan Smith (4-2, 1.97 ERA) was brilliant as he became the 4th straight starter in this series to make to the 7th inning. He prevented the Barons from getting a runner into scoring position while scattering 5 hits with 3 strikeouts. Brad Nelson tossed the final two innings as he gave up two one-out singles to give the Barons their first chances with a runner in scoring position. He struck out Jeremy Frost looking to end the game.

The Braves started their scoring in the 5th inning as Mark Jurich doubled to start off the inning and later scored on a wild pitch. The big inning came an inning later when the Braves picked up three doubles (Jones, Jurich and Sammons) which helped drive in all four runs in the 6th. The Braves added a run in the 7th as Brent Lillibridge tripled and scored on a wild pitch by Corwin Malone. Greg Creek singled to start the 8th and Clint Sammons brought him in for his 3rd RBI of the night. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak in the 5th inning with an infield single. He has now hit safely in a franchise-high 20 straight games.

The Braves finished 6-for-22 with runners in scoring position while the Barons finished 0-for-2 in the same category.

Dan Smith was the Braves Player of the Game as tossed 7 scoreless innings while retiring seven in a row at one point and scattering 5 hits with 3 strikeouts. Smith lowered his ERA to 1.97 which still ranks him 2nd in the League behind Mark Holliman (1.37 ERA).

The Braves will wrap up a 5-game homestand in Hoover, Alabama at Regions Park as they take on the Birmingham Barons, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, in the Final Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will not air in its entirety but will start at 11:00am (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 11:05am (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Kelvin Villa (3-2, 4.96 ERA) to the hill in search of his fourth win, while the Barons will counter with LHP Wes Whisler (1-4, 3.83 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Regions Park frequency - 93.1-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:25 --- ATTENDANCE: 3,979

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 15-9 on the road.
* The Braves improve to 19-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 21-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 21-6 when not allowing a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 18-4 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 23-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 5 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $286 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 6 games - (9-26, .346)
* Mark Jurich - 4 games - (7-17, .412)
* Matt Esquivel - 4 games - (7-16, .438)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games - (4-9, .444)
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games - (4-9, .444)
* Carl Loadenthal - 20 games - (29-78, .372)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Mike Rozema (0-7)
* Ray Serrano (0-15)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Win in Extras Again: W, 4-3 (11)

Clint Sammons picked a perfect time to knock in his first run as a MS Brave as he belted an RBI single in the 11th to lift the Braves over the Barons 4-3, in front of an announced crowd of 2,478 at Regions Park. The Braves (26-12) pushed their lead in the South Division up to 5 games over the Jacksonville Suns. The Barons (17-21) dropped to 9 games behind the Braves and into the cellar. The Braves have now won 8 straight against Birmingham to start the season. They have also won 6 of their last 7 after a season-long four game losing skid.

The Braves got it started in the 2nd inning as Matt Esquivel launched his Southern League leading 10th homerun of the season as well as driving in his League best 33rd RBI. In 68 games played last year Esquivel finished with just 38 RBIs. Also Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak in the 2nd inning with an RBI single. He has now hit safely in a franchise-high 19 straight games. (He overtakes Scott Thorman -18 games - May 16 - June 4, 2005).

Braves starter Francisely Bueno (1-2, 4.13 ERA) became the 3rd straight starter in this series to make to the 7th inning. He was lifted with two on for Jose Ascanio who got the final two outs to get the Braves out of the jam. The Braves actually took the lead on JC Holt's first RBI of the season in the top of the 7th which would have made Bueno a winner, but Joey Devine was charged with his second blown save of the season as he gave up the lead in the bottom of the 9th. He allowed a lead off walk to Robert Valido who then stole second. He moved to third on a single by Chris Getz and then scored on a sacrifice fly by Cory Aldridge in foul territory.

Clint Sammons was the Braves Player of the Game as finished 2-for-5 while also throwing out two base runners. Van Pope hit a triple in his second straight game and is now tied for the League Lead in that category.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Hoover, Alabama at Regions Park as they take on the Birmingham Barons, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, in the Fourth Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 6:05pm (CT). The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Dan Smith (3-2, 2.33 ERA - #2 in League) to the hill in search of his fourth win, while the Barons will counter with RHP Jack Egbert (3-2, 2.61 ERA - #4 in League) who is also looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Regions Park frequency - 93.1-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 3:23 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,478

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 14-9 on the road.
* The Braves improve to 18-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 8-2 in one run games.
* The Braves improve to 20-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 3-1 in extra inning games.
* The Braves improve to 16-5 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 17-4 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 22-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 12 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $274 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 5 games - (8-21, .381)
* Van Pope - 2 games - (3-10, .300)
* Mark Jurich - 3 games - (5-12, .417)
* Matt Esquivel - 3 games - (5-11, .455)
* Carl Loadenthal - 19 games - (28-76, .368)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Greg Creek - 3 games - (4-13, .308)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Josh Burrus (0-5) - 11th inning single.
* Brent Lillibridge (0-7) - 1st inning single.
* Clint Sammons (0-15) - 9th inning single.

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Mike Rozema (0-7)
* Ray Serrano (0-15)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Blister Barons: W, 14-3

The MS Braves put together their biggest inning in franchise history with a nine run 5th inning as they secured their seventh straight win over the Barons in front of an announced crowd of 1,895 at Regions Park. The Braves (25-12) pushed their lead in the South Division up to 4 games over the Jacksonville Sun. The Barons (17-20) dropped to 8 games behind the Braves for the Division Lead. The Braves have now won 7 straight against Birmingham to start the season. They have also won 5 of their last 6 after a season-long four game losing skid.

The Braves set new franchise highs in runs scored in a game (14), and runs scored in an inning (9). They tied franchise highs in walk in a game (10), and largest margin of victory (11 runs). Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak in the 3rd inning with a single. He has now hit safely in 18 straight games and has tied Scott Thorman for the Franchise Record (18 games - May 16 - June 4, 2005).

Braves starter Jo-Jo Reyes (4-1, 3.45 ERA) faced one over the minimum through four while limiting the Barons to just one hit. After the near 40 minute 5th inning, Reyes gave up three runs on four hits but retired the final five batters he faced while lasting seven frames. Charlie Morton worked the final two innings allowing just a couple of hits.

Mark Jurich was the Braves Player of the Game as finished 2-for-4 while matching a career high with 5 RBIs. The middle three of the order (Esquivel, Creek, Jurich) finished 7-for-12 with 4 runs scored, 4 walks, 3 doubles and 11 RBIs. Van Pope broke out of an 0-16 slump with a two-run single in the 5th inning followed by a triple in the 6th inning. J.C. Holt was also 2-for-5 with a walk and two runs scored.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Hoover, Alabama at Regions Park as they take on the Birmingham Barons, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, in the Third Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will not air due to the Rebel Yell Hotline. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Francisely Bueno (1-2, 4.58 ERA) to the hill still in search of his second win, while the Barons will counter with LHP Gio Gonzalez (4-2, 3.44 ERA) who is looking for his league-best fifth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Regions Park frequency - 93.1-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:42 --- ATTENDANCE: 1,895

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 13-9 on the road.
* The Braves improve to 8-2 in day games.
* The Braves improve to 19-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 20-6 when not allowin1g a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 16-4 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 21-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 7 more strikeouts on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $262 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 4 games - (7-15, .467)
* Greg Creek - 3 games - (4-13, .308)
* Mark Jurich - 3 games - (5-12, .417)
* Matt Esquivel - 2 games - (4-6, .667)
* Carl Loadenthal - 18 games - (26-72, .361)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (5-12, .417)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED:
* Van Pope - (0-16) - 5th inning 2-RBI single.

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS:
* Josh Burrus (0-3)
* Mike Rozema (0-7)
* Ray Serrano (0-15)
* Brent Lillibridge (0-7)
* Clint Sammons (0-12)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Steal Opener From Barons: W, 2-1

The Braves rallied for two runs in the top of the 9th with two outs to
defeat the Barons for the sixth straight time this season in front of an
announced crowd of 4,085 at Regions Park. The Braves (24-12) pushed their
lead in the South Division back to 3 1/2 games over the Jacksonville Suns
(Suspended Game). The Barons (17-19) dropped to 7 games behind the Braves
for the Division Lead.

Greg Creek got the rally started in the ninth with his 10th double of the
season on a 2-2 pitch off of Mississippi native, Dewon Day with two outs.
Mike Rozema followed with a walk before Carl Loadenthal extended his
hitting streak in his final at-bat for the second straight game. He has
now hit safely in 17 straight games and is one shy of Scott Thorman for
the Franchise Record (18 games - May 16 - June 4, 2005)

Braves starter Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.02 ERA) worked around 7 hits while
allowing a 3rd inning run. Zach Schreiber gave up two hits in the 8th but
kept the Barons off the scoreboard. Joey Devine tossed the 9th for his
League Leading 10th save of the season.

Carl Loadenthal was the Braves Player of the Game as he extended his
hitting streak to a team-high 17 games with a two-strike two-out RBI
single in the 9th inning. He finished 1-for-4 with the RBI. J.C. Holt
finished 2-for-3 at the plate with a walk a double and 2 stolen bases.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Hoover, Alabama at Regions
Park as they take on the Birmingham Barons, the AA Affiliate of the
Chicago White Sox, in the Second Game of their Southern League Series. The
Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's start things off at 1:05pm. The
First Pitch will follow at 2:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send
LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (3-1, 3.38 ERA) to the hill still in search of his fourth
win, while the Barons will counter with RHP Adam Russell (3-2, 2.29 ERA)
who is also looking for his fourth victory.

GAME TIME: 2:41 --- ATTENDANCE: 4,085

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 12-9 on the road.
* The Braves improve to 17-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 7-2 in one-run games.
* The Braves imrpove to 6-2 in the first game of a series.
* The Braves imrpove to 3-1 in the first game of a road trip.
* The Braves improve to 19-6 when not allowing a homerun.
* The Braves imrpove to 6-5 when their opponent scores first.
* The Braves improve to 2-11 when trailing after eight innings.

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 3 games - (5-10, .500)
* Mark Jurich - 2 games - (3-8, .375)
* Carl Loadenthal - 17 games - (25-67, .373)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (5-12, .417)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Matt Esquivel - (0-6) - 4th inning single.

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Van Pope (0-14)
* Josh Burrus (0-6)
* Ray Serrano (0-11)
* Clint Sammons (0-12)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* 2B Diory Hernandez was reassigned to Myrtle Beach.

by
Bryan Eubank

MS Braves Arrive In Hoover, AL

The MS Braves arrived in Hoover, Alabama around 3:00am Saturday morning in preparation for their 5-game series with the Birmingham Barons - the AA Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The Braves are coming off their 6th series win of the season and are enjoying a 3-game lead in the South Division. If you are headed to Hoover and Regions Park make sure you bring your FM Radio to tune in to the Braves Broadcast at 93.1 FM.

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Win 6th Series of the Year: W, 3-1

Mark Jurich blooped a 6th inning RBI single to score Matt Esquivel as the Braves put the finishing touches on their 6th series win in front of an announced crowd of 5,194 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (23-12) pushed their lead in the South Division back to 3 games over the Jacksonville Suns. The Diamond Jaxx (16-19) dropped back into a tie for third place, two games behind the Tennessee Smokies in the North Division.

Braves starter Kelvin Villa (3-2, 4.96 ERA) was sharp as he scattered 4 hits and allowed just a Sac Fly to Matt Tuiasosopo for the only West Tenn run. Villa induced a Double Play to get out of a lead off walk to start the game. The D-Jaxx also loaded up the bases in the 5th inning only to see Villa wriggle off the hook with a lineout and groundout to Brent Lillibridge. Jose Ascanio tossed two scoreless innings of relief allowing just a single that was erased on a Jeff Frazier Double Play. Then Joey Devine tossed a perfect 9th to pick up his Southern League Leading 9th save. The Braves team ERA fell to 2.94 - they remained in first place in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 3.16 ERA.

Joey Devine was the Braves Player of the Game as he retired all three batters in a perfect 9th along with two strikeouts to pick up his League Best 9th save. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 16 games with a two-out bloop single in the 8th inning. He finished 1-for-4. Brandon Jones finished 2-for-4 at the plate while Matt Esquivel drew a pair of walks and scored his League Leading 28th run. West Tennessee's Jeff Frazier also extended his hitting streak to a season-high and Southern League best 18 games.

The Braves will start up a 5-game homestand in Hoover, Alabama at Regions Park as they take on the Birmingham Barons, the AA Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, in the First Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's start things off at 6:05pm. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.35 ERA) to the hill still in search of his League Best fifth win, while the Barons will counter with RHP Kris Honel (1-1, 4.82 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Regions Park frequency - 93.1-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:35 --- ATTENDANCE: 5,194

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 16-10 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 12-3 at Trustmark Park.
* The Braves imrpove to 18-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 5-3 when scoring three runs.
* The Braves imrpove to 5-2 in the last game of a series.
* The Braves improve to 18-6 when not allowing a homerun.
* The Braves imrpove to 3-0 in the last game of a homestand.
* The Braves improve to 20-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 9 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $248 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* J.C. Holt - 2 games - (3-7, .429)
* Mark Jurich - 2 games - (3-8, .375)
* Diory Hernandez - 2 games - (4-6, .667)
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (5-12, .417)
* Carl Loadenthal - 16 games - (24-63, .381)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* NONE

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* * Brandon Jones (0-8) - 3rd Inning RBI Double

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Van Pope (0-11)
* Josh Burrus (0-6)
* Ray Serrano (0-11)
* Matt Esquivel (0-6)
* Clint Sammons (0-8)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE.

(Players listed in Italics did not play in this game)

by
Bryan Eubank

D-Jaxx Win Ugly Game 4: L, 9-5

The Braves and D-Jaxx looked a lot like the weather Thursday night at Trustmark Park...UGLY. The two teams combined to commit 8 errors as the Diamond Jaxx won the error-prone game 9-5 over the Braves in front of an announced crowd of 3,196 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (22-12) had their lead in the South Division reduced to 2 games over the Jacksonville Suns. The Diamond Jaxx (16-18) moved into sole possession of second place, a game behind the Tennessee Smokies in the North Division.

Braves starter Dan Smith (3-2, 2.33 ERA) had one of his worst outings as he allowed a season-high 6 walks while giving up 3 runs (only one earned). In fact of the 9 D-Jaxx runs only 3 were earned. Charlie Morton and Michael Nix gave up a combined 6 runs (2 earned) in their 2 1/3 innings of work. Brad Nelson worked the final 1 2/3 to keep the team ERA at 3.00 - they remained in first place in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 3.23 ERA.

Mark Jurich was the Braves Player of the Game as he belted his 1st Homerun of the year while driving in a season-high 4 RBIs while finishing 2-for-4 at the plate. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 15 games with a 4th inning leadoff single. He finished 2-for-4. J.C. Holt made his return to the Braves and went 2-for-4 as well. The big problem was the heart of the order as Brandon Jones, Matt Esquivel and Greg Creek finished the night 0-for-12 at the plate.

West Tennessee's Jeff Frazier extended his hitting streak to a season-high and Southern League best 17 games. The top two in their order finished 7-for-11 with 5 runs scored.

The Braves will wrap up a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the West Tennessee Diamon Jaxx, the AA Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in the Final Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's start things off at 6:05pm. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Kelvin Villa (2-2, 5.74 ERA) to the hill still in search of his third win, while the Diamond Jaxx will counter with RHP Joe Woerman (0-0, 4.91 ERA) who is still looking for his elusive first victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 3:08 --- ATTENDANCE: 3,196

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 15-10 in night games.
* The Braves fall to 5-5 when their opponent scores first.
* The Braves fall to 11-3 at Trustmark Park.
* The Braves fall to 15-4 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves fall to 15-5 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 19-3 when leading after seven innings.
* The Braves registered 4 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $239 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Carl Loadenthal - 15 games - (23-59, .390)
* Diory Hernandez - 2 games - (4-6, .667)
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games - (4-8, .500)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Greg Creek - 4 games - (5-14, .357)
* Matt Esquivel - 2 games - (3-6, .500)
* Brandon Jones - 2 games - (3-7, .429)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Mark Jurich (0-5) - 2nd Inning Homerun

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Josh Burrus (0-6)
* Matt Esquivel (0-4)
* Clint Sammons (0-8)
* Brandon Jones (0-5)
* Van Pope (0-8) - DNP
* Ray Serrano (0-7) - DNP
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)


TRANSACTIONS:
* J.C. Holt activated from the Disabled List.

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves End Losing Skid: W, 6-1

The Southern League Leading MS Braves ended their season-high 4 game losing streak as they defeated the Diamond Jaxx 6-1 in front of an announced crowd of 3,048 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (21-11) maintained their lead in the South Division at 3 games over the Jacksonville Suns. The Diamond Jaxx (15-17) remained a game behind the Tennessee Smokies in the North Division.

Braves starter Jo-Jo Reyes (3-1, 3.38 ERA) was able to pitch around 5 base hits and 7 base runners in the frist four innings allowing just one run on a sacrifice fly. After that run scored Jo-Jo Reyes retired the final eight batters he faced before being lifted in the 6th inning. Jose Ascanio entered and combined with Reyes to retire 18 of the final 19 D-Jaxx batters.

The Braves team ERA fell to 3.06 and they moved back into first place in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 3.09 ERA.

Matt Esquivel was the Braves Player of the Game as he belted his first triple of the year along with his Southern League Leading 9th Homer and 28th RBI of the season...He also scored 3 times to add to his League Lead now up to 27. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 13 games with a 3rd inning sinble. He finished 2-for-5.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the West Tennessee Diamon Jaxx, the AA Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in the Third Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's start things off at 6:05pm. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Francisely Bueno (0-2, 6.17 ERA) to the hill still in search of his elusive first win, while the Diamond Jaxx will counter with LHP Robert Rohrbaugh (3-2, 2.81 ERA) who is looking for his fourth victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:37 --- ATTENDANCE: 3,048

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves improve to 14-9 in night games.
* The Braves improve to 10-2 at Trustmark Park.
* The Braves improve to 16-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves improve to 14-4 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves improve to 15-3 when scoring four or more runs.
* The Braves improve to 18-0 when leading after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $235 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Greg Creek - 3 games - (4-10, .400)
* Mike Rozema - 3 games - (3-10, .300) - DNP
* Clint Sammons - 3 games - (4-12, .333)
* Carl Loadenthal - 13 games - (19-51, .373)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (4-11, .364)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Matt Esquivel (0-13) - 5th inning Triple

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Ray Serrano (0-7) - DNP
* Mark Jurich (0-5) - DNP
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)
* Diory Hernandez (0-9)
* Brent Lillibridge (0-6)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

by
Bryan Eubank

Anthony Lerew to Start for Atlanta Tonight

Entering the 2005 season, Anthony Lerew was the fifth rated prospect in the Braves organization and the second highest rated pitcher in the farm system. After going 8-9 at Myrtle Beach the previous year, Lerew prepared for AA and a possible jump to the big leagues in '05.

The 6'3" righty did little to shake that notion, going 6-2 with an ERA of 3.93 through 14 games in Mississippi including the only full complete game in Mississippi Braves history. He struck out 64 while walking 32 before his promotion to AAA Richmond on June 25.

To further his prospect status, Lerew tossed a shutout inning for the US team in the '05 Futures Game.
As it turned out, he did get that call up to Atlanta in '05. Lerew recieved a September call-up and made seven appearances for the big club down the stretch.

Unfortunately, 2006 wasn't as kind to Lerew. He started the year in AAA Richmond where he suffered a back strain that sidelined him for two weeks. After returning from the DL, Lerew was sent back to AA Mississippi to work with Pitching Coach Kent Willis, now the Minor League Pitching Coordinator for the Braves entire minor league system.

The move payed off as Lerew returned to form and was named the M-Braves Pitcher of the Month for July after going 4-1 with an ERA of 0.76 in six games. He then returned to Richmond in early August to finish out the year.

Now in 2007, Lerew has been dominate. His patience and hard work have payed off as he will start for Atlanta tonight. While in AAA Richmond this year, Lerew was 1-0 with an ERA of 1.37.

by
Nick Skinner

Braves Done in By D-Jaxx: L, 6-1

The West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx continued their winning ways Monday night as they picked up a series opening 6-1 win over the Southern League Leading MS Braves in front of an announced crowd of 2,453 at Trustmark Park. The Braves (20-11) were dealt their fourth straight loss as the D-Jaxx (15-16) picked up their seventh win in their last nine games. The Braves lead in the South Division stayed at 3 games as the Jacksonville Suns lost to the Birmingham Barons.

Braves ace Matt Harrison (4-1, 3.35 ERA) was anything but, as he allowed 6 runs on 6 hits while walking two and striking out two. Three of the runs he allowed were scored with two outs. D-Jaxx starter and converted reliever, Juan Done (2-2, 2.45 ERA) allowed just an unearned run to lead off the first. After allowing a walk to load the bases in the bottom of the first Done retired 15 of the final 18 batters he faced. Both bullpens were solid as neither allowed a run and only yielded three hits.

The Braves team ERA rose 3.13 and they have fallen to second in the Southern League behind Birmingham - 3.08 ERA.

Carl Loadenthal was the Braves Player of the Game as he extended his hitting streak to a team-high 12 games with an 5th inning double. He also scored the only run for the Braves after reaching on an error to start the game.

The Braves will continue a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the West Tennessee Diamon Jaxx, the AA Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in the Second Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's start things off at 6:05pm. The First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (2-1, 3.69 ERA) to the hill still in search of his third win, while the Diamond-Jaxx will counter with RHP Andy Baldwin (0-2, 4.15 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:31 --- ATTENDANCE: 2,453

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 13-9 in night games.
* The Braves fall to 9-2 at Trustmark Park.
* The Braves fall to 15-7 when scoring first.
* The Braves fall to 5-6 when allowing a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 5-2 in the first game of a series.
* The Braves fall to 2-8 when trailing after six innings.
* The Braves fall to 2-1 in the first game of a homestand.
* The Braves registered 10 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $229 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Greg Creek - 2 games - (2-7, .286)
* Mike Rozema - 3 games - (3-10, .300)
* Clint Sammons - 2 games - (3-8, .375)
* Brent Lillibridge - 3 games - (4-11, .364)
* Carl Loadenthal - 12 games - (17-46, .370)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brandon Jones - 5 games - (7-21, .333)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* NONE

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Ray Serrano (0-7) - DNP
* Mark Jurich - (0-5)
* Matt Esquivel (0-12)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

by
Bryan Eubank

WIN MS BRAVES TICKETS: Trivia Contest

To win tickets to a future Braves game try your hand at answering the following question correctly. Those who answer correctly will be put into a drawing for 4 tickets to a game in the next Braves Homestand (5.17-5.27 vs Tennessee & Montgomery) at Trustmark Park. Congrats to James Blakely for winning the Question #3.

QUESTION: Who had the last five-hit game for the MS Braves?

Click here to send in your answer.

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What is the longest winning streak the MS Braves have put together in their brief three-year existence?

ANSWER: 7 games (Two Times) 05/28/05 – 06/04/05 and 05/29/06 – 06/04/06

by
Bryan Eubank

Three Braves Tossed in Finale Loss: L, 9-6

Long balls were the theme in Montgomery on Sunday afternoon as the Braves and Biscuits each hit a pair of homeruns as the Biscuits topped the Braves in the series finale 9-6. The game was complete with fireworks on the field as Manager Phillip Wellman, Outfielder Matt Esquivel and Pitcher Zach Schreiber were all tossed in the 6th inning arguing balls and strikes. The Biscuits (15-15) became the first team to take a series from the Braves (20-10) this season and also send them to their third straight loss in front of an announced crowd of 3,993 at Riverwalk Stadium. The Braves lead in the South Division has been trimmed to 3 games by the Jacksonville Suns.

Braves starter Kelvin Villa (2-2, 2.41 ERA) struggled giving up 6 runs in the first three innings on a season-high 10 hits. The bullpen was strong until the 7th when Brad Nelson gave up a costly 3-run Homerun to John Jaso that just snuck out over the right field wall that pushed the lead to 6 for Montgomery. The Braves ERA skyrocketed to 3.03 but they still remain in first in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 3.09 ERA.

The middle relief was the story for the Biscuits as they held the Braves scoreless and limited them to just 1 hit from the 5th through the 8th innings while surrendering 4 walks in the process.

Brandon Jones was the Braves Player of the Game as he picked up his second multi-homerun game of the road trip while becoming the second Brave to drive in 5 runs in this series (Josh Burrus drove in 5 in Game 1). Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 11 games with an infield single in the top of the 9th.

The Braves will start up a 5-game homestand in Pearl, Mississippi at Trustmark Park as they take on the West Tennessee Diamon Jaxx, the AA Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in the First Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will not air due to the Rebel Yell Hotline. The broadcast will begin at approximately 7:00pm (CT), while the First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Matt Harrison (4-0, 2.14 ERA) to the hill still in search of his league-leading fifth win, while the Diamond-Jaxx will counter with RHP Juan Done (1-2, 3.00 ERA) who is looking for his second victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Trustmark Park frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:47 --- ATTENDANCE: 3,993

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 7-2 in day games.
* The Braves fall to 11-9 on the road.
* The Braves fall to 13-4 with a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 5-5 when allowing a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 4-2 in the last game of a series.
* The Braves fall to 1-2 in the last game of a road trip.
* The Braves fall to 5-4 when their opponenet scores first.
* The Braves registered 6 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $219 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Mike Rozema - 2 games - (2-6, .333) - DNP
* Brandon Jones - 5 games - (7-21, .333)
* Carl Loadenthal - 11 games - (16-42, .381)
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games - (3-8, .375)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Josh Burrus - 3 games - (4-10, .400)
* Ray Serrano - 2 games - (2-8, .250) - (0-4)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Van Pope (0-12) - 4th inning RBI single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Ray Serrano (0-7)
* Matt Esquivel (0-7)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - Did Not Play (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

by
Bryan Eubank

Biscuits Blank Braves: L, 4-0

Evan Longoria took a day off on Friday night and apparently it was exactly what the doctor ordered as he drove in 3 Saturday night to single-handedly defeat the Braves 4-0 in front of the 4th largest crowd at Riverwalk Stadium of 7,354. The Biscuits also honored their 1 millionth fan as the Biscuits (14-15) forced the Rubber Match Sunday afternoon in Montgomery. The Braves (20-9) still remain 5 games ahead of the Barons and Suns in the South Division Standings. It was just the second time the Braves have been shutout this season.

Braves starter Dan Smith (3-2, 2.41 ERA) tossed three perfect innings before giving up two runs on three hits in the 4th inning. He allowed another run in the 5th inning on an RBI Fielder's Choice hit into by Brooks Badeaux with the bases loaded.
The Braves ERA rose slightly to 2.81 but they still remain in first in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 2.91 ERA. The Braves will have one more chance to win their 6th straight series. They finally lost their second game in a row this season.

Clint Sammons was the Braves Player of the Game as he collected his first two AA hits, finishing 2-for-4 on the night. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 10 games.

The Braves will wrap up a ten-day road trip in Montgomery, Alabama at Riverwalk Stadium as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the Final Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 1:05pm (CT), while the First Pitch will follow at 2:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Kelvin Villa (2-1, 4.18 ERA) to the hill still in search of his third win, while the Biscuits will counter with RHP Jon Barratt(0-0, 0.00 ERA) who joins the Biscuits from extended Srping Training. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Hank Aaron Stadium frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:07 --- ATTENDANCE: 7,354

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 11-8 on the road.
* Matt Esquivel had his 5-game RBI streak end.
* The Braves fall to 5-3 when their opponenet scores first.
* The Braves registered 4 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $213 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Josh Burrus - 3 games - (4-10, .400)
* Mike Rozema - 2 games - (2-6, .333) - DNP
* Ray Serrano - 2 games - (2-8, .250) - DNP
* Brandon Jones - 4 games - (5-17, .294)
* Carl Loadenthal - 10 games - (15-38, .395)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Greg Creek - 6 games - (10-20, .500)
* Matt Esquivel - 7 games - (11-24, .458)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Clint Sammons (0-5) - 5th inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Van Pope (0-11)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - Did Not Play (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* NONE

by
Bryan Eubank

Braves Strand Eleven in Loss: L, 7-4

The Mississippi Braves left eleven men stranded on the base paths Friday night as the Biscuits used a four-run 2nd inning to halt their four game losing streak in front of 5,801 fans at Riverwalk Stadium. The Braves (20-8) dropped their first decision at Riverwalk Stadium but remain 5 games ahead of the Barons and Suns in the South Division Standings.

Braves lefty Francisely Bueno (0-2, 6.12 ERA) struggled through three innings giving up five runs while walking one and not striking out a single batter. Jose Ascanio was brilliant in his first three innings of relief as he retired the Biscuits in order on 22 pitches. In his fourth inning of work (7th) he doubled his pitch total and gave up two huge insurance runs for Montgomery after the Braves had just made it a one-run game. The Braves ERA rose slightly to 2.76 but they still remain in first in the Southern League ahead of Birmingham - 2.98 ERA.

The Biscuits (13-15) gave the Braves multiple chances to get back in the game before Greg Norton (making his first Major League Rehab appearance), ripped a two-run double off Ascanio to give the Biscuits a three-run advantage. Biscuits starter Chris Mason (4-0, 1.87 ERA) notched his fourth straight win as he struck out six and scattered six hits. It was the first game of the series that a Biscuits starter made it out of the 4th inning. Dale Thayer picked up a four-out save and moved into a tie for second in the league with his 5th save of the year.

Matt Esquivel was the Braves Player of the Game as he finished the game with an RBI double, two walks a run scored, and a Sac Fly to bump his Southern League Leading RBI total to 26. He also set a new season record of 6 straight games with an RBI. Matt is also still the current League Leader in Homeruns (8 HR), RBIs (26)and Runs Scored (24).

Clint Sammons made his AA debut and went 0-4 at the plate with 3 strikeouts as he was promoted to fill in for Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Ray Serrano is the back-up catcher. Carl Loadenthal extended his hitting streak to a team-high 9 games, tying Jarrod Saltalamacchia (14-34, .412 - April 16-25). Greg Creek also belted his 1st homerun of the season which tied the game 1-1 in the 2nd inning.

The Braves will have two more chances to win their 7th straight series. They have never lost two in a row this season, as they are 7-0 when following a loss.

The Braves will continue a ten-day road trip with a five game set in Montgomery, Alabama at Riverwalk Stadium as they take on the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA Affiliate of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in the Fourth Game of their Southern League Series. The Braves On Deck Circle presented by Wendy's will start things off at 6:05pm (CT), while the First Pitch will follow at 7:05pm (CT). The Braves are scheduled to send LHP Dan Smith (4-1, 1.95 ERA) to the hill still in search of his League-best 5th win, while the Biscuits will counter with LHP Mike Prochaska (0-3, 6.46 ERA) who is still looking for his first victory. Make sure you take your radio to the game and tune to the exclusive Hank Aaron Stadium frequency - 104.3-FM.

Check out the Braves Minute here. To catch an archived version of tonight's game or any previous MS Braves game head to Minor League Baseball.com and select the day you want to hear.

GAME TIME: 2:56 --- ATTENDANCE: 5,801

BRAVES BITES:
* The Braves fall to 11-7 on the road.
* The Braves fall to 13-3 when hitting a homerun.
* The Braves fall to 14-2 when scoring 4 or more runs.
* The Braves fall to 5-2 when their opponenet scores first.
* The Braves fall to 14-2 when scoring 4 or more after eight innings.
* The Braves registered 1 more strikeout on the mound.(Performance Sports Academy K's for Kids Total: $209 to the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital)

ACTIVE HIT STREAKS (2 games or more):
* Greg Creek - 6 games - (10-20, .500)
* Josh Burrus - 2 games - (2-7, .286) - DNP
* Mike Rozema - 2 games - (2-6, .333) - DNP
* Ray Serrano - 2 games - (2-8, .250) - DNP
* Brandon Jones - 3 games - (4-13, .308)
* Matt Esquivel - 7 games - (11-24, .458)
* Carl Loadenthal - 9 games - (13-35, .371)

HIT STREAKS ENDED:
* Brent Lillibridge - 2 games - (2-8, .250)

HITLESS STREAKS ENDED
* Mark Jurich - (0-10) - 6th inning double
* Diory Hernandez - (0-7) - 2nd inning single

ACTIVE HITLESS STREAKS (More than 0-3)
* Van Pope (0-7)
* Clint Sammons (0-4)
* Fernando Lunar (0-11) - Did Not Play (DL)

TRANSACTIONS:
* Clint Sammons - promoted from Myrtle Beach
* Fernando Lunar - place on Disabled List (retroactive to 4.28)

by
Bryan Eubank