The Braves became the second National League team to 40 wins on Thursday night, and they’ve done it behind one of baseball’s best rotations.
Here are the numbers:
1. The starting rotation is 27-16 with a 3.35 ERA overall (373-2/3 innings). Its ERA is the fourth-lowest in the majors.
2. The starters have been especially effective at home. They haven’t allowed an earned run over the past four games at SunTrust Park entering Friday, and they haven’t permitted more than two runs at home since May 29.
3. Entering Friday, the rotation is riding an 18-1/3 scoreless-innings streak. Braves starters have allowed seven hits and one walk in that span.
4. The Braves pitching has been exceptional in the past seven home games. They’ve allowed just 13 runs and held opponents to a .139 average.
5. Brandon McCarthy enters his Friday night start with 11 previous appearances against the Padres. He’s 8-1 with a 3.73 ERA, with his team winning 11 of 12 games. His eight wins against San Diego are his most against any opponent.
