Marcell Ozuna made some much-needed noise for the Atlanta Braves Wednesday night, ending a lengthy home run drought in the team’s 7-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
Ozuna hadn’t sent one out of the park since August 28, and his cold spell had Braves fans wondering when, or if, their star designated hitter would return to his usual hard-hitting self.
Big Bear 🐻#BravesCountry pic.twitter.com/2sPrPszBQ9
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) September 19, 2024
For Ozuna, that home run didn’t just break a dry spell—it marked a milestone. Not only did it give the Braves a much-needed boost in their Wild Card chase, but it also placed him in the company of Braves greats. With his next at-bat, Ozuna officially joined an elite group of just 12 Braves players who have achieved 100+ RBIs in consecutive seasons.
100 RBI on the season for the Big Bear 🐻#BravesCountry pic.twitter.com/59aOlUhaFK
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) September 19, 2024
Ozuna’s drought lasted a grueling 95 at-bats. He struggled to find his power, leading to a drop in production. Due to this, he did not record and RBIs since late August. The slump could not have come at a worse time for a player known for driving in runs and providing crucial firepower. In the 19 games that followed his last homer, Atlanta managed just a 9-10 record.
What stands out even more is that in eight of those losses, the Braves couldn’t muster more than two runs, highlighting just how much Ozuna’s absence from the scoreboard hurt the team.
The Braves now find themselves in a critical stretch. With only two games separating them from the third NL Wild Card spot and a high-stakes series against the New York Mets on the horizon, Ozuna’s bat must stay hot. His role as ‘The Big Bear’ for Atlanta isn’t just a nickname—it’s a reflection of his importance to the team’s offense, and if they hope to make a serious push for a postseason berth, his power needs to stay consistent.
The Braves have dealt with their fair share of injuries this season, but a glimmer of hope is on the horizon. Second baseman Ozzie Albies is nearing his return, and third baseman Austin Riley may follow. If the team can stay healthy and Ozuna can maintain his momentum, Atlanta still has a shot at securing that Wild Card spot.
But with just ten games left, the Braves don’t have time for any type of slump. With that 100-RBI milestone in the books, Ozuna will need to be the force Atlanta has relied on for years if they’re going to make this season count.
