Chris Sale records 11 strikeouts as the Atlanta Braves defeat the San Diego Padres 6-5 on Thursday. The Braves’ offense plays a central role after trailing early: San Diego jumps to a 3-0 lead against Sale, aided by a misplay by Braves infielder Mauricio Dubón in left field. Atlanta then responds with power at the plate, hitting four home runs in the game. Dominic Smith provides a key moment with a three-run homer, helping shift the score in the Braves’ favor. Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies also hit solo home runs, and Drake Baldwin adds a home run in the seventh inning, his 19th of the season. Atlanta’s bullpen support holds through the late innings as the Padres come back late, but the Braves finish with the one-run victory. The win gives Atlanta three victories in four games against San Diego.