MIAMI — Two Atlanta relievers combined to escape a bases-loaded, none-out jam in the seventh, and new closer Jason Grilli pitched a perfect ninth to help the Braves beat Miami 2-1 on opening day Monday.
The rebuilding Braves won without All-Star closer Craig Kimbel, traded in their latest deal to San Diego on Sunday.
The Marlins have hopes of ending an 11-year playoff drought following an uncharacteristic offseason spending spree, but little went right for the home team. The sellout crowd’s mood briefly turned sour in the second inning when the game was halted for 16 minutes because of rain — a first at 3-year-old Marlins Park, which has a retractable roof.
The showers were unexpected, and fans booed when play was halted while the roof closed.
The opener was a flop for Miami in more ways than one. Speedy newcomer Dee Gordon appeared to have a chance at a bunt single in the eighth inning, but he stumbled leaving the batter’s box, went face down in the dirt and became an easy out.