JR Ritchie gets the start in Seattle vs the Mariners

Coming off a sweep on the road and clinching their eight-straight series win, the Atlanta Braves continue to lead the MLB with the best record, and make it their best start to the season since 1892.

This series against the Seattle Mariners shouldn’t warrant any different results.

2026 is the year of the Rookies, and JR Ritchie is no exception. Boasting a 2.92 ERA with the team across his two starts so far, he’s constantly developing his six-pitch arsenal, and will look for a strong start playing against the team he’s followed from a young age, just outside his hometown backyard of Bainbridge Island, Washington.

This will be a sort of homecoming for Ritchie, as he looks to pitch it like any game, but with the support of familiar fans and friendly surrounding the stadium to witness his start.

Ritchie told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Chad Bishop that he’s planning to stick to his routine and keep the goal in mind of putting the team in the best position to win.

Logan Gilbert is set to take the mound in Seattle. Holding a 4.03 ERA across 38 innings and seven games so far, he’s hoping to increase his win average and get past this rough patch starting the season, especially with a quality contact team like the Braves facing him at the plate.

Gilbert has a solid seven-pitch arsenal, with his 95.4 mph four-seamer leading the way, but he will have to find a way to utilize his breaking balls to their fullest. He pitches deep into games, but the longer he stays, the more opposing batters get used to his mix.

Getting out early and collecting as many strikes as possible will be the key to staying ahead of the game for Gilbert as he looks for a successful outing to bounce back.

Game Date/Time: Monday, May 4, 9:40 p.m. EDT

Location: T-Mobile Park, Seattle, WA

Radio: 680 AM / 93.7 FM The Fan