Smith Hits Historic Walkoff Grand Slam in Braves Debut

Atlanta Braves designated hitter Dominic Smith delivered a historic walkoff grand slam in the ninth inning Saturday night at Truist Park, rallying his new team to a 6-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals and marking an emotional highlight just two weeks after his mother's death.

The 30-year-old Smith, making his debut start for Atlanta, came to the plate with one out and the bases loaded, trailing 2-0. Facing Royals closer Carlos Estevez on a 3-2 count, he launched a 386-foot drive to right-center field, capping a six-run outburst that flipped the game and sent the home crowd into a frenzy. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Smith became the first player in major league history to hit a walkoff grand slam in his first game with a new team. The Braves, seeking a season-opening sweep, improved to 2-0.

The rally began with Drake Baldwin drawing a leadoff walk, advancing to third on Matt Olson's single before scoring on Mike Yastrzemski's one-out hit. Ozzie Albies then walked, and Jorge Mateo, running for Olson, tied the score on Michael Harris II's single. Osvaldo Bido earned the win with a perfect ninth inning, striking out all three batters he faced.