Globe iconLogin iconRecap iconSearch iconTickets icon

Haren bounces back after first, shuts down Braves

Veteran starter works well with recent callup Realmuto behind plate

ATLANTA -- By his own admission, Dan Haren's first inning was less than ideal. The right-hander labored through 28 pitches, walked a couple and flirted with big trouble.

But before disaster struck, Haren got out of a bind, settled in and set the tone for the Marlins' 6-2 win over the Braves on Wednesday afternoon at Turner Field. Haren gave up two runs in seven innings, struck out five, and held Atlanta hitless for 4 2/3 innings.

"It was big," Miami manager Mike Redmond said. "We've had a couple of short outings and needed someone to go deep. He gave us exactly what we needed."

Haren worked smoothly with catcher J.T. Realmuto, who was called up on Monday from Triple-A New Orleans. Realmuto had a nice afternoon, collecting two hits and a walk.

Once Haren settled, the Marlins were in command.

"The first inning was a mess," Haren said. "The leadoff walk. I don't want to start that way. I was able to get lucky out there. After that, I settled in pretty good.

"We got a couple of runs. I was able to have a few quick innings, get us back in the dugout quick when we were scoring. I got a big double play, too."

Haren executed his plan nicely with Realmuto, who caught just one bullpen session for the veteran right-hander in Spring Training.

"To contribute to a big series win, it's big," Realmuto said. "The way Dan threw the ball today ... the way the offense was, everybody hit. He threw the ball well. The bullpen threw the ball well. It was an all-around good game."

Joe Frisaro is a reporter for MLB.com. He writes a blog, called The Fish Pond. Follow him on Twitter @JoeFrisaro.
Read More: Miami Marlins, Dan Haren