2021 World Series#Game 3

{{See also|2021 Major League Baseball postseason}}

The team with the better regular-season winning percentage, the Houston Astros, had home-field advantage in the series, thus hosting Games 1, 2, and 6 (and would have hosted Game 7 if needed).{{cite web |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/world-series-home-field-advantage |title=Who gets home field in the World Series? |first=Matt |last=Kelly |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|date=October 13, 2021 |accessdate=October 13, 2021}}

The Astros and Braves had previously met in the postseason five times, in the National League Division Series when the Astros competed in the National League. Of those five series, the Braves won three (1997, 1999, and 2001) while the Astros won two (2004 and 2005).{{cite web |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/best-astros-braves-postseason-moments |title=Top Astros-Braves playoff moments |first=Andrew |last=Simon|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|date=October 24, 2021 |accessdate=October 24, 2021}} The Astros and Braves played in the National League West from 1969 to 1993.

The teams' jerseys lacked a World Series patch for the first time since 1997, though a patch was on their caps.{{cite news|author=Matt Young |newspaper=Houston Chronicle|location=Houston|publisher=Hearst Newspapers |url=https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-Braves-World-Series-jersey-no-patches-2021-16566583.php |title=Why aren't Astros, Braves wearing World Series patch on jerseys? |date=2021-10-26 |accessdate=2021-10-31}}

{{multiple image

| footer = Managers Dusty Baker of the Astros (left) and Brian Snitker of the Braves

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| image1 = Dusty Baker in 2017 (33735309423) (cropped).jpg

| image2 = Brian Snitker (8316496) (cropped).jpg

| caption2 = (Photo from 2024)

}}

{{main|2021 Atlanta Braves season}}

The Atlanta Braves were managed by Brian Snitker, who joined the organization in 1977 and became their manager in 2016.{{cite news|url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/mark-bradley-blog/brian-snitker-the-baseball-lifer-whos-having-the-time-of-his-life/7QOQEP5J4VGOFB2MK32CLYEQVY/|title=Brian Snitker: The baseball lifer who's having the time of his life|newspaper=The Atlanta-Journal Constitution|location=Atlanta|publisher=Cox Media Group|first=Mark|last=Bradley|date=October 30, 2021|accessdate=October 31, 2021}} The Braves qualified for the postseason after winning the National League East for the fourth straight season.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-clinch-2021-nl-east-title |title=Four and counting: Braves win NL East again |first=Mark |last=Bowman |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 1, 2021 |accessdate=October 24, 2021}} They played four months with a winning percentage at .500 or below before finally surpassing .500 on August 6, the latest point in a season that an eventual league champion achieved a winning record.{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/32463989/sportsbooks-install-houston-astros-world-series-favorites-atlanta-braves |title=Sportsbooks install Houston Astros as World Series favorites over Atlanta Braves |first=David |last=Purdum |work=ESPN|location=Houston |date=October 24, 2021}} In the best-of-five National League Division Series, the third-seeded Braves defeated the Milwaukee Brewers in four games.{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2021/10/12/braves-eliminate-brewers-playoffs-freddie-freeman-home-run/8430058002/ |title=Freddie Freeman's clutch home run propels Braves into NLCS for second consecutive season |first=Steve |last=Gardner |newspaper=USA Today|publisher=Gannett|location=Atlanta |date=October 12, 2021 |accessdate=October 24, 2021}} In the best-of-seven National League Championship Series (NLCS), the Braves defeated the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in six games. Left fielder Eddie Rosario was named NLCS MVP after hitting 14-for-25 (.560) with 3 home runs and 9 runs batted in in the series.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/eddie-rosario-nlcs-game-6 |title=Eddie again! MVP Rosario homers in clincher |first=Anthony |last=DiComo |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|date=October 23, 2021 |accessdate=October 24, 2021}}

This was the Braves' first World Series appearance since 1999, tenth in franchise history, and sixth while in Atlanta.{{cite web |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/world-series.shtml |title=World Series Winners |website=Baseball-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference, LLC|location=Philadelphia |accessdate=October 24, 2021}} The Braves entered the series with three prior World Series titles, one as the Atlanta Braves in {{wsy|1995}} and one while based in each of their previous cities of Boston ({{wsy|1914}}) and Milwaukee ({{wsy|1957}}).

An Omaha World-Herald employee, Steven Elonich, predicted that the Braves would win the 2021 World Series in an article published in 2018.{{cite web | url=https://omaha.com/sports/baseball/professional/former-world-herald-employee-predicted-braves-as-world-series-champs-in-2018/article_fd9a0250-3cef-11ec-90fa-db4fc8b07657.html | title=Former World-Herald employee predicted Braves as World Series champs in 2018 | date=November 3, 2021 }} At that point, the Braves were coming off a three-year stretch that saw 278 combined losses — more than any three-year stretch by the franchise since 1988 through 1990.

{{main|2021 Houston Astros season}}

Under second-year manager Dusty Baker, the Houston Astros qualified for the postseason as the American League West division winner, having finished atop the division for the fourth time in five seasons.{{cite news |title=Division champs! Astros beat Rays 3–2 to clinch 4th AL West title in last 5 years |url=https://www.khou.com/article/sports/mlb/astros/houston-astros-al-west-division-title-clinch/285-86877bd3-24da-46d1-8f16-3be870d7f3eb#:~:text=HOUSTON%20%E2%80%94%20Carlos%20Correa%20hit%20his,10th%20overall%20for%20the%20Astros. |website=KHOU 11|publisher=Tegna, Inc.|location=Houston|agency=Associated Press|access-date=October 13, 2021 |date=September 30, 2021}} In the best-of-five American League Division Series, the second-seeded Astros defeated the Chicago White Sox in four games.{{cite news|last=Reiss|first=Joe|date=October 13, 2021|title=Astros Defeat White Sox 10–1 to Clinch ALDS|work=SB Nation|location=Chicago|publisher=Vox Media|url=https://www.southsidesox.com/2021/10/12/22723389/houston-astros-defeat-chicago-white-sox-10-1-to-clinch-alds|url-status=live|access-date=October 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023051451/https://www.southsidesox.com/2021/10/12/22723389/houston-astros-defeat-chicago-white-sox-10-1-to-clinch-alds|archive-date=October 23, 2021}} In the best-of-seven American League Championship Series (ALCS), the Astros defeated the Boston Red Sox in six games,{{cite news|last=Mullin|first=Eric|date=October 23, 2021|title=Astros beat Red Sox in ALCS, advance to World Series|publisher=NBC Sports|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/white-sox/astros-beat-red-sox-alcs-advance-2021-world-series|access-date=October 23, 2021}} with designated hitter Yordan Alvarez named ALCS MVP after batting 12-for-23 (.522) in the series.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/yordan-alvarez-named-alcs-mvp-2021 |title=MVP Alvarez (.522) unstoppable in ALCS |first=Daniel |last=Kramer |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 22, 2021 |accessdate=October 23, 2021}} Starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr., who missed the ALCS due to a forearm strain suffered during the ALDS, was omitted from Houston's World Series roster due to that injury.{{cite news |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/10/25/sports/expected-injury-will-keep-lance-mccullers-out-world-series-astros/ |title=As expected, injury will keep Lance McCullers out of World Series for Astros |newspaper=The Boston Globe|location=Houston |url-access=limited |date=October 25, 2021 |accessdate=October 27, 2021}}

Baker became the ninth manager to win both American and National League pennants (having won the latter with the San Francisco Giants in 2002). Baker's gap of 19 years between appearances in the World Series is surpassed only by Bucky Harris, who managed in the {{wsy|1925}} and {{wsy|1947}} editions.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/dusty-baker-facts-on-return-to-world-series |title=He's back! 7 incredible facts on Dusty in WS |first=Sarah |last=Langs |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P|date=October 23, 2021 |accessdate=October 23, 2021}} At 72 years and 4 months old, Baker became the second-oldest manager in World Series history, the oldest having been Jack McKeon of the Florida Marlins in {{wsy|2003}}, who was seven months older.{{cite news|last=Diamond|first=Jared|date=October 25, 2021|title=The Old Men and the Series: This Fall Classic Features the Oldest Managerial Matchup Ever|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|location=New York|publisher=Dow Jones & Company|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/world-series-managers-dusty-baker-brian-snitker-11635132824|url-status=live|url-access=subscription|archive-url=https://archive.today/20211031160014/https://www.wsj.com/amp/articles/world-series-managers-dusty-baker-brian-snitker-11635132824|archive-date=October 31, 2021|access-date=October 28, 2021}} Astros' hitting coach Troy Snitker is the son of Brian Snitker, the Braves manager.{{cite news|url=https://www.mlb.com/braves/news/brian-troy-snitker-father-son-2021-world-series |title=Brian and Troy Snitker meet as father, son in 2021 World Series |last=Workman|first=Mark|location=Atlanta|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P|date=2021-10-26 |accessdate=2021-10-31}} As a player, Baker was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1967 and spent seven seasons there.

This was the Astros' third World Series appearance in five years, having appeared in {{wsy|2017}} and {{wsy|2019}}, and fourth overall, having also appeared in {{wsy|2005}} when they represented the National League. Their only prior World Series title came in 2017.

{{multiple image

| footer = Minute Maid Park (top) and Truist Park

| align = right

| direction = vertical

| total_width = 200

| image1 = Minute Maid Park 2016-04-23.jpg

| image2 = SunTrust Park Opening Day 2017.jpg

}}

{{MLB Playoff Summary

| summary =

| winner = Atlanta

| leader =

| score = 4–2

| date1 = October 26

| score1 = Atlanta Braves – 6, Houston Astros – 2

| loc1 = Minute Maid Park

| time1 = 4:06

| att1 = 42,825

| ref1 =

| date2 = October 27

| score2 = Atlanta Braves – 2, Houston Astros – 7

| loc2 = Minute Maid Park

| time2 = 3:11

| att2 = 42,833

| ref2 =

| date3 = October 29

| score3 = Houston Astros – 0, Atlanta Braves – 2

| loc3 = Truist Park

| time3 = 3:24

| att3 = 42,898

| ref3 =

| date4 = October 30

| score4 = Houston Astros – 2, Atlanta Braves – 3

| loc4 = Truist Park

| time4 = 3:45

| att4 = 43,125

| ref4 =

| date5 = October 31

| score5 = Houston Astros – 9, Atlanta Braves – 5

| loc5 = Truist Park

| time5 = 4:00

| att5 = 43,122

| ref5 =

| date6 = November 2

| score6 = Atlanta Braves – 7, Houston Astros – 0

| loc6 = Minute Maid Park

| time6 = 3:22

| att6 = 42,868

| ref6 =

|}}

File:AJ Minter from Nationals vs. Braves at Nationals Park, April 6th, 2021 (All-Pro Reels Photography) (51101805413) (cropped).png entered Game 1 in relief of the injured Charlie Morton and earned the win.]]

{{linescore|

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In pregame ceremonies, the national anthem was performed by Keke Palmer,{{cite news|last=Aldridge|first=Donesha|date=October 26, 2021|title=Who sang the national anthem in Game 1 of the World Series?|work=WXIA-TV|location=Atlanta|publisher=Tegna, Inc.|url=https://www.11alive.com/article/sports/mlb/atlanta-braves/keke-palmer-national-anthem-game-1-braves-astros/85-e2949c37-8760-4837-80de-a25292e490fd|url-status=live|access-date=October 26, 2021|archive-url=https://archive.today/20211031155807/https://www.11alive.com/article/sports/mlb/atlanta-braves/keke-palmer-national-anthem-game-1-braves-astros/85-e2949c37-8760-4837-80de-a25292e490fd|archive-date=October 31, 2021}} and the ceremonial first pitch was thrown out by former Astro and National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Craig Biggio.{{cite news |title=Craig Biggio, Andre Johnson do honors before World Series Game 1 |url=https://www.khou.com/article/sports/mlb/astros/biggio-andre-johnson/285-0a88ca52-6733-4ca1-a73a-e227ae10dc4e |access-date=November 3, 2021 |work=KHOU 11|location=Houston|publisher=Tegna, Inc.|date=October 26, 2021}}{{cite press release|url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-ceremonial-and-off-field-activities-for-games-one-and-two-of-the-2 |title=Ceremonial and off-field activities for Games One and Two of the 2021 World Series |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=October 28, 2021}}

Framber Valdez started for Houston while former Astro Charlie Morton started for Atlanta. Jorge Soler led off the World Series with a home run to left field for a 1–0 Atlanta lead after the first three pitches; he became the first player ever to lead off a World Series with a wall-clearing home run.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/jorge-soler-leadoff-home-run-world-series-game-1 |title=Soler hits first true World Series leadoff HR |first=Adam |last=McCalvy |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=October 26, 2021}} A one-out single by Ozzie Albies followed by a double from Austin Riley gave the Braves a 2–0 lead. In the bottom of the first, the Astros had the bases loaded with two outs following a single and two walks, but Morton got Kyle Tucker to ground out, ending the threat. Atlanta added a run in the top of the second on two singles, a fly out, and a fielder's choice, making it 3–0. Freddie Freeman then singled and Albies beat out an infield grounder, loading the bases with two outs, but Valdez struck out Riley to end the inning. In the top of the third, Eddie Rosario singled, followed by a two-run home run from Adam Duvall, making it 5–0 Braves and driving Valdez from the game after 52 pitches.{{cite news|author=Chandler Rome |url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/astros/article/Astros-drop-Game-1-of-World-Series-to-Braves-16567120.php |title=A false start by Framber Valdez costs Astros in Game 1 loss |newspaper=Houston Chronicle|location=Houston|publisher=Hearst Newspapers |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=October 28, 2021}}

Morton left in the bottom of the third inning with an injury; X-rays later revealed a fibular fracture in his right leg, causing him to miss the remainder of the series.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/charlie-morton-exits-world-series-game-1 |title=Morton fractured fibula, out for World Series |first=Adam |last=McCalvy |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=October 26, 2021}} The injury stemmed from a comebacker off the bat of Yuli Gurriel in the bottom of the second. It was unclear when Morton's leg was fractured; Braves manager Brian Snitker told reporters that X-rays taken in between innings revealed nothing wrong with Morton, though he said Morton's leg was "stressed." Morton threw 16 pitches following the injury, retiring the next three batters he faced and striking out two.{{cite news |last1=McCalvy |first1=Adam |title=Charlie Morton faces 3 batters with injured leg |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/charlie-morton-faces-3-batters-with-injured-leg?partnerId=zh-20211027-491899-mlb-1-A&qid=1026&bt_ee=LVL60uC8Gp5o4kZoYcKa%2BaRHmP33YUOQdG7YaJ5M%2Flbh5FRGje8OgZzXaZRnr81D&bt_ts=1635338992071 |access-date=27 October 2021 |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.}}

A. J. Minter was brought into the game; Michael Brantley hit a one-out double to right, but Minter retired the next two batters to end the inning. In the bottom of the fourth inning, Tucker hit a one-out double, advanced to third when Gurriel singled with one out, and scored on a fielder's choice, making it 5–1. In the top of the eighth, after three scoreless innings, Dansby Swanson walked, advanced to third on a single by Soler, and scored on a sacrifice fly by Freeman, extending Atlanta's lead to 6–1. In the bottom of the inning, Yordan Alvarez hit a lead-off triple and then scored on a groundout by Carlos Correa, making the score 6–2. In the bottom of the ninth, Atlanta closer Will Smith allowed only one walk, to Aledmys Díaz, as the Braves took a 1–0 lead in the series,{{cite news |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-open-world-series-by-defeating-astros-in-game-1/QW7B7ICDPRCQNEJG6ICUKI3OUM/ |title=Braves open World Series by defeating Astros in Game 1 |first=Gabriel |last=Burns |newspaper=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |publisher=Cox Media Group|location=Atlanta|date=October 27, 2021 |accessdate=October 27, 2021}} their first World Series win since Game 2 in 1996.

File:José Altuve 2017.jpg hit the Astros' first home run of the series in Game 2.]]

{{linescore|

|Date = October 27, 2021

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Before the game, Atlanta added Tucker Davidson to their roster in replacement of the injured Charlie Morton.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/tucker-davidson-replaces-charlie-morton-on-ws-roster |title=LHP Davidson replaces Morton on WS roster |first=Mark |last=Bowman |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 27, 2021 |accessdate=October 27, 2021}} Giavanni Walker, a petty officer first class in the United States Navy, sang the national anthem, and Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell threw the ceremonial first pitch.

Max Fried started for Atlanta while José Urquidy started for Houston.{{cite web|author=FLM |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/astros-turn-to-jose-urquidy-for-game-2-vs-braves-max-fried/ |title=Astros turn to Jose Urquidy for Game 2 vs. Braves, Max Fried |work=CBS Sports|location=Houston |date=October 27, 2021 |accessdate=October 28, 2021}} In the bottom of the first inning, Jose Altuve doubled, advanced to third on a flyout by Michael Brantley, and scored on a sacrifice fly by Alex Bregman, giving Houston a 1–0 lead. In the top of the second, Atlanta tied the game, 1–1, via a solo home run to left field by Travis d'Arnaud, coming on a full count with two outs. In the bottom of the second, the Astros hit three consecutive one-out singles, retaking the lead, 2–1. With runners on first and second, Martín Maldonado delivered a base hit to the outfield, driving in another run. Braves left fielder Eddie Rosario tried to throw out José Siri advancing from first to third, but no Braves player was on the base resulting in an error and allowing Siri to score and making it 4–1. After Altuve lined out, Brantley singled to make it 5–1. In total, the Astros collected four runs on five singles,{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/jose-siri-yuli-gurriel-martin-maldonado-lead-astros-world-series-game-2 |title=Siri at center of Houston's 'feeding frenzy' |first=Brian |last=McTaggart |location=New York|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P. |date=October 27, 2021 |accessdate=October 28, 2021}} tying their club record for most hits in an inning in the World Series.{{cite tweet |user=ESPNStatsInfo |number=1453528321275355139 |publisher=ESPN|location=Atlanta|title=The Astros had 5 hits in the 2nd inning, matching their most ever in an inning of a World Series game. They had 5 hits in the 2nd inning of Game 3 in 2017 against the Dodgers, which was exactly 4 years ago.|date=October 27, 2021 |accessdate=October 28, 2021}}

With two outs in the top of the fifth inning, Freddie Freeman delivered an RBI single to left, scoring d'Arnaud and cutting the Astros' lead to 5–2. Houston extended their lead to 6–2 in the sixth on a fielder's choice that scored Yordan Alvarez. The final run came in the bottom of the seventh inning, as Altuve homered on the first pitch by Drew Smyly, making it 7–2.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/27/sports/baseball/astros-braves-world-series-game-2.html|title=World Series: Astros Beat Braves to Win Game 2|last=Waldstein|first=David|newspaper=The New York Times|location=Houston|date=October 27, 2021|accessdate=October 29, 2021}} It was the 22nd home run of Altuve's postseason career, tying him with Bernie Williams for the second-most all-time.{{cite news|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/most-career-postseason-home-runs |title=Most career postseason home runs |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date= |accessdate=2021-10-28}}{{efn|Manny Ramirez hit 29 postseason home runs.}} This was the first victory by the home team in a World Series since 2018.{{efn|All seven games of the 2019 World Series were won by the away team, while the 2020 World Series was played at a neutral site.}}

File:Ian_Anderson_(50337312776)_(cropped).jpg threw five no-hit innings as Atlanta's starting pitcher in Game 3.]]

{{linescore|

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|LP=Luis García (0–1)

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}}

In pregame ceremonies, the ceremonial first pitch was thrown out by Hank Aaron Jr.,{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/hank-aaron-pregame-tribute-world-series-game-3 |title=Hank's spirit lives on in G3 pregame tribute |first=Anthony |last=Castrovince |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|date=October 29, 2021 |accessdate=October 29, 2021}} as his father was honored before the game;{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/hank-aaron-pregame-tribute-world-series-game-3 |title=Hank Aaron pregame tribute World Series Game 3 |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date= |accessdate=2021-10-30}} the national anthem was performed by Zac Brown.{{cite press release |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-ceremonial-off-field-activities-for-games-3-5-of-the-2021-world-se |title=Ceremonial & off-field activities for Games 3–5 of the 2021 World Series |website=MLB.com |date=October 29, 2021 |accessdate=October 29, 2021}} This was the first World Series game ever played at Truist Park,{{efn|Truist Park opened in 2017.}} and the first played in Atlanta since {{wsy|1999}}. Ian Anderson started for Atlanta while Luis García started for Houston, marking the first time two rookie pitchers started against each other in a World Series since Justin Verlander and Anthony Reyes opened Game 1 in {{wsy|2006}}.{{cite news|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/astros-vs-braves-world-series-game-3-starting-lineups-and-pitching-matchup |title=Astros vs. Braves World Series Game 3 starting lineups and pitching matchup |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|date= |accessdate=2021-10-28}}

After two and a half scoreless innings, the Braves scored on an RBI double by Austin Riley that drove in Eddie Rosario in the bottom of the third inning. García was relieved after {{frac|3|2|3}} innings, having allowed one run on three hits while striking out six batters. Anderson allowed no hits, three walks, and one hit batsman while striking out four in five innings.{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32506279/atlanta-braves-pull-ian-anderson-five-no-hit-innings-game-3-world-series |title=Atlanta Braves pull Ian Anderson and lose no-hitter but win Game 3 over Astros |first=Alden |last=Gonzalez |work=ESPN|location=Atlanta |date=October 29, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} The Astros remained hitless through seven innings, as A. J. Minter and Luke Jackson did not allow a hit in the sixth or seventh, respectively. Tyler Matzek started the eighth for the Braves and allowed a bloop single to Aledmys Díaz, who was replaced by José Siri as a pinch-runner. With two outs, Siri stole second and advanced to third on a throwing error by Travis d'Arnaud, but was left on base as Michael Brantley popped out. In the bottom of the eighth, d'Arnaud hit a solo home run to extend Atlanta's lead to 2–0. That home run was the first time home runs were hit in back-to-back games by the same player since Ryan Klesko did so in the 1995 World Series. d'Arnaud became the first catcher to do this since Roy Campanella did so for the Dodgers in the 1955 World Series. Will Smith, Atlanta's closer, pitched in the top of the ninth inning. He allowed a leadoff single to Alex Bregman, then retired the next three batters, giving Atlanta a 2–1 lead in the series.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/29/sports/baseball/braves-astros-world-series-game-3.html|title=Atlanta Flirts With a No-Hitter and Takes Series Lead |first=Alan |last=Blinder|newspaper=The New York Times|location=Atlanta|date=October 29, 2021|accessdate=October 29, 2021}} The seven-inning no-hit bid by the Atlanta pitching staff was the longest in a World Series game since Jim Lonborg of the Boston Red Sox went {{frac|7|2|3}} innings before allowing a hit in Game 2 of the 1967 World Series.{{cite news |url=https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2021/10/30/braves-throw-2-hitter-blank-astros-2-0-for-2-1-series-lead/ |title=Braves throw 2-hitter, blank Astros 2–0 for 2–1 Series lead |agency=AP |website=NBC Sports |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/1967/B10050BOS1967.htm |title=Boston Red Sox 5, St. Louis Cardinals 0 |publisher=Retrosheet |date=October 5, 1967 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} This was the first shutout in the World Series since Game 3 of the 2016 World Series.

File:Jorge Soler 2019.jpg's pinch-hit home run was the deciding run of Game 4.]]

{{linescore|

|Date = October 30, 2021

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|Location = Truist Park in Cumberland, Georgia,

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|WP=Tyler Matzek (1–0)

|LP=Cristian Javier (0–1)

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|BoxURL=https://www.mlb.com/gameday/astros-vs-braves/2021/10/30/660902#game_state=final,game_tab=box,game=660902

}}

Prior to the game, the Astros replaced backup catcher Jason Castro on their roster with Garrett Stubbs, due to COVID-19 protocols.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/garrett-stubbs-replaces-jason-castro-on-world-series-roster |title=Stubbs replaces Castro on Astros' WS roster |first=Brian |last=McTaggart |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} The ceremonial first pitch was thrown out by cancer survivor Elizabeth O’Connor,{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/world-series-game-4-first-pitch-has-special-meaning |title=First win of G4 comes in pregame ceremony |first=Jessica |last=Camerato |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} and the national anthem was performed by Jordan Fisher. Zack Greinke started for Houston, while Dylan Lee acted as an opener for Atlanta in his first MLB start.{{cite news |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/2021-world-series-braves-rookie-dylan-lee-will-start-vs-astros-as-game-4-opener/ |title=2021 World Series: Braves rookie Dylan Lee will start vs. Astros as Game 4 opener |first=Mike |last=Axisa |work=CBS Sports |location=Atlanta|date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32511697/atlanta-braves-dylan-lee-make-history-first-career-start-world-series|title=Braves' Lee makes history with World Series start |agency=AP |work=ESPN|location=Atlanta |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} Greinke was placed eighth in Houston's batting order, the first starting pitcher in a World Series game not to bat ninth since Babe Ruth in Game 4 of the 1918 World Series.{{cite news |url=https://www.khou.com/article/sports/mlb/astros/greinke-astros-babe-ruth/285-262f894c-0bdc-422f-a922-31004b8f92bd |title=Greinke is first pitcher to not bat ninth in World Series since Babe Ruth; delivers hit in first at-bat |agency=AP |website=KHOU |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}}

In the top of the first, Lee allowed a hit to Jose Altuve while issuing two walks and recording one strikeout, then was relieved by Kyle Wright.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/dylan-lee-braves-world-series-game-4-starter |title=Braves' Lee faces 4, fans 1 in short G4 start |first=Mark |last=Bowman |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} Altuve scored on a ground out by Carlos Correa to give the Astros an early 1–0 lead. Altuve hit a solo home run in the top of the fourth to extend Houston's lead to 2–0. It was Altuve's second home run of the series and the second and final one that the Astros would hit. Greinke exited after four innings, having allowed no runs on four hits while striking out three and walking none.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/zack-greinke-singles-in-world-series-game-4-2021 |title=Greinke poised on mound – and at plate |first=Jason |last=Beck |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 30, 2021}} In the bottom of the sixth, Atlanta had runners at first and second with one out, via a double and a walk. Houston reliever Phil Maton entered, struck out Ozzie Albies, and allowed a hit to Austin Riley that scored a run, cutting the lead to 2–1. After an intentional walk to Joc Pederson that loaded the bases with two outs, Maton struck out Travis d'Arnaud to end the rally. Back-to-back solo home runs by Dansby Swanson and Jorge Soler off of Cristian Javier with one out in the bottom of the seventh put Atlanta ahead, 3–2.{{cite news|date=October 30, 2021|title=Swanson, Soler home runs push Braves past Astros in World Series Game 4|publisher=WSB-TV|url=https://www.wsbtv.com/sports/mlb/atlanta-braves/swanson-soler-home-runs-push-braves-past-astros-world-series-game-4/XOMGRVL2QJBS5CZXXGKQWDDSKY/|url-status=live|access-date=October 31, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031040751/https://www.wsbtv.com/sports/mlb/atlanta-braves/swanson-soler-home-runs-push-braves-past-astros-world-series-game-4/XOMGRVL2QJBS5CZXXGKQWDDSKY/|archive-date=October 31, 2021}} After a scoreless eighth inning, Atlanta closer Will Smith entered to pitch the top of the ninth. He retired the side for his second save in two days, as Atlanta took a 3–1 lead in the series.{{cite news |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-rally-late-to-stun-astros-one-win-away-from-world-series-title/ETRXM37FONBNJOM3L7GB3TP5VY/ |title=Braves rally late to stun Astros, one win away from World Series title |first=Gabriel |last=Burns |newspaper=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |location=Atlanta|publisher=Cox Media Group|date=October 30, 2021 |accessdate=October 31, 2021}}

File:Martin Maldonado Angels 2018.jpg had three runs batted in during Game 5.]]

{{linescore|

|Date = October 31, 2021

|Time = 8:15{{nbsp}}pm (EDT)

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}}

Hall of Fame inductee Greg Maddux threw out the ceremonial first pitch, and Lauren Alaina performed the national anthem. Framber Valdez started for Houston, while Tucker Davidson started for Atlanta; Davidson had not played in an MLB game since June 15, 2021.{{cite news|last=Axisa |first=Mike |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/world-series-2021-braves-will-start-rookie-lefty-tucker-davidson-in-game-5-vs-astros/ |title=World Series 2021: Braves will start rookie lefty Tucker Davidson in Game 5 vs. Astros |work=CBS Sports|location=Atlanta |date= |accessdate=2021-10-31}}

Adam Duvall hit a grand slam for Atlanta with two outs in the bottom of the first inning, the first grand slam in the first inning of a World Series game since 1960.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/adam-duvall-grand-slam-world-series-game-5-2021 |title=Duvall delivers with SLAM in first inning |first=Jason |last=Beck |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |date=October 31, 2021 |accessdate=October 31, 2021}} The Astros scored two runs in the second inning, with an RBI double by Alex Bregman and a sacrifice fly by Martín Maldonado. Houston scored twice more in the top of the third, coming on an error, walk, double, and ground out, to make it a 4–4 tie game. A solo home run by Freddie Freeman in the bottom of the inning put the Braves back ahead, 5–4. Both managers brought in relief pitchers during the third inning. The Astros tied the game at 5–5 in the fifth inning when Maldonado drew a walk with the bases loaded, and then scored two more runs on a single by Marwin González to take a 7–5 lead. The Astros added a run in the seventh on an RBI single by Maldonado, and a run in the eighth on an RBI single by Carlos Correa, making it 9–5. Kendall Graveman pitched the final two innings for Houston, holding the four-run lead as the Astros avoided elimination and sent the series back to Houston.{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2021/11/01/houston-astros-world-series-game-5-atlanta/6228844001/ |title=Astros stay alive with Game 5 comeback vs. Atlanta, forcing World Series back to Houston |first=Bob |last=Nightengale |newspaper=USA Today|publisher=Gannett|location=Atlanta|date=November 1, 2021 |accessdate=November 1, 2021}}

Zack Greinke singled for Houston in the fourth inning as a pinch hitter, becoming the first pitcher with a pinch hit in a World Series game since Jack Bentley of the New York Giants in {{wsy|1923}}.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/zack-greinke-pinch-hit-single-world-series-game-5-2021 |title=Greinke makes history with pinch-hit single |publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York |last=Beck|first=Jason|date=November 1, 2021 |accessdate=November 1, 2021}} Game 5 of the 2021 World Series marked the last game to date in which the designated hitter rule was not used. Starting in {{mlby|2022}}, the National League added the DH permanently.{{Cite news|title=Everything you need to know about '22 season|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-2022-season-faq|access-date=2022-03-10|last=Castrovince|first=Anthony|publisher=MLB Advanced Media, L.P.|location=New York|language=en}} This makes Greinke the last pitcher to date to get a hit in the postseason (pitchers such as Shohei Ohtani have since gotten hits in the regular season). Additionally, Freeman's home run in this game is the furthest-hit home run in the World Series since the beginning of distance tracking in 2015, at 460 feet.{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfVtPhIKrx8|title=Where did these World Series homers land?! The furthest hit homers in the Fall Classic!|date=October 26, 2023 |accessdate=February 11, 2024|via=www.youtube.com}}

File:Max Fried (cropped) (cropped).jpg pitched six scoreless innings in Game 6 and earned the win.]]

{{linescore|

|Date = November 2, 2021

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|WP=Max Fried (1–1)

|LP=Luis García (0–2)

|SV=

|Attendance=42,868

|BoxURL=https://www.mlb.com/gameday/braves-vs-astros/2021/11/02/660906#game_state=final,game_tab=box,game=660906

}}

A "Rally Nun"{{efn|The "Rally Nuns" are members of the Dominican Sisters of Mary Immaculate Province,{{cite news |url=https://www.wltx.com/article/sports/mlb/rally-nuns-houston-astros-world-series-game-6/285-71c823a0-d9bc-41cd-917f-4d0d1a13322a |title=Yes, the 'Rally Nuns' will be at Game 6 of the World Series |first=Chloe |last=Alexander |work=WLTX |date=November 2, 2021 |accessdate=November 2, 2021}} based in Houston.{{cite web |url=https://houstondominicans.org/our-congregation-history |title=Our Congregation History |website=houstondominicans.org |date=November 2, 2021}}}} threw out the ceremonial first pitch, and country music artist Carly Pearce sang the national anthem.{{cite news |url=https://cw39.com/sports/astros/world-series-game-6-fan-info-paul-wall-to-have-pregame-concert-rally-nuns-to-throw-out-first-pitch/ |title=World Series Game 6 fan info: Paul Wall to have a pregame concert, Rally Nuns to throw out first pitch |first=Chad |last=Washington |work=KIAH |date=November 2, 2021 |accessdate=November 2, 2021}} Before the game, Johan Camargo replaced Ehire Adrianza on the Braves' roster as Adrianza was placed on the paternity list.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/johan-camargo-replaces-ehire-adrianza-on-braves-world-series-roster |title=Johan Camargo replaces Ehire Adrianza on Braves World Series roster |first=Mark |last=Bowman |website=MLB.com |date=November 2, 2021 |accessdate=November 2, 2021}} Luis García started for Houston and Max Fried started for Atlanta. The Braves took a 3–0 lead in the top of the third inning on a single and walk followed by a towering two-out home run by Jorge Soler that left Minute Maid Park over the raised train tracks in left field.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/jorge-soler-homers-over-train-tracks-world-series-game-6 |title=Soler clears train tracks for massive 3-run HR |website=MLB.com |date=November 2, 2021 |accessdate=November 2, 2021}} Garcia exited after Soler's home run, having pitched {{frac|2|2|3}} innings while striking out three batters. In the top of the fifth, a two-run home run by Dansby Swanson followed by a walk then a two-out double by Freddie Freeman extended Atlanta's lead to 6–0. In the top of the seventh, Freeman hit a solo home run with two outs to make it 7–0. Tyler Matzek entered in relief in the bottom of the seventh; Fried allowed no runs on four hits while striking out six batters and walking none in six innings. Atlanta closer Will Smith was brought in to pitch the bottom of the ninth. He allowed a leadoff single to Michael Brantley and retired the next three batters, the last out being a Yuli Gurriel infield grounder fielded by Swanson, who threw to Freeman, giving the Braves the title.{{cite news |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-win-world-series-2021 |title=Braves win 1st World Series title since 1995 |first=Anthony |last=Castrovince |website=MLB.com |date=November 2, 2021 |accessdate=November 2, 2021}} With this final inning, Will Smith finished off a postseason in which he closed 11 of 16 Braves games while allowing no runs. Jorge Soler was named the World Series Most Valuable Player.{{cite news|last=McCalvy|first=Adam|title=Soler clears train tracks, hauls in Series MVP|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/jorge-soler-wins-2021-world-series-mvp|website=MLB.com|date=November 3, 2021|access-date=November 4, 2021}}

With the World Series victory, Joc Pederson became a back-to-back World Series winner on two different teams, joining Jack Morris, Ryan Theriot, Jake Peavy and Ben Zobrist as the only players to have accomplished that feat.{{Cite web |date=2021-11-03 |title=Joc Pederson celebrating World Series win with his pearls and a cigar is a mood |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/gallery/braves-astros-world-series-joc-pederson-pearls |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=For The Win |language=en-US}} Pederson had become a fan-favorite throughout his three-month stay in Atlanta, particularly for his preference for wearing pearls.{{Cite magazine |last=Apstein |first=Stephanie |title=Pearls Before Swing |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2021/10/23/joc-pederson-pearls |access-date=2022-10-22 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}

2021 World Series (4–2): Atlanta Braves beat Houston Astros.

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File:Hall of Famer John Smoltz speaks to reporters before the MLBPAA's 2016 Legends for Youth Dinner (cropped).jpg, color analyst for Fox]]

For the 22nd straight year, the World Series was televised in the United States by Fox (including the local affiliates WAGA-TV in Atlanta and KRIV in Houston). Joe Buck called the games as a play-by-play announcer, along with Hall of Famer and former Braves pitcher John Smoltz as color analyst and Ken Rosenthal and Tom Verducci as field reporters.{{cite press release |url=https://www.foxsports.com/presspass/latest-news/2021/10/06/fox-sports-unveils-2021-mlb-postseason-lineup |title=FOX Sports Unveils 2021 MLB Postseason Lineup |website=foxsports.com |date=October 6, 2021 |accessdate=October 23, 2021}} Kevin Burkhardt hosted the pregame and postgame shows, joined by analysts Frank Thomas, Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, and Dontrelle Willis. Game 6 was the final Major League Baseball game that Buck called on Fox and one of the final major sporting events he called on the network (his final broadcast on Fox was the 2021 NFC Championship Game).

MLB International fed the series to broadcasters outside the United States, with Scott Braun providing play-by-play and Dan Plesac as color commentator.{{cite tweet |user=jmmccarthy2002 |number=1453159769489948672 |title=World feed is being called by Scott Braun and Dan Plesac. |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=October 26, 2021}} The MLB International feed was produced by MLB Network.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-broadcast-schedule-for-the-2021-world-series-announced |title=Press release: Broadcast schedule for the 2021 World Series announced |work=Mlb.com |date=2021-10-23 |accessdate=2021-10-30}}

{{further|World Series television ratings}}

Figures are per cited sourcing and subject to revision.

Television ratings for the 2021 World Series were 20% higher than the 2020 World Series in the shortened season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.thewrap.com/world-series-ratings-fox-braves-astros-viewers/|title=World Series Audience Rises 20% From Last Year's Record Low|first=Tony|last=Maglio|date=November 3, 2021|accessdate=February 11, 2024}} It also averaged a higher rating than the NBA Finals for the second straight year.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sportsmediawatch.com/2021/11/world-series-ratings-up-still-second-lowest-braves-astros-fox-viewership/|title=World Series viewership higher, if still below norm|first=Jon|last=Lewis|date=November 4, 2021|website=Sports Media Watch|accessdate=February 11, 2024}} However, ratings for the 2021 World Series were still below where they had been pre-COVID. Game 6 drew a 33.5 rating and 54% share in the Atlanta market, the highest since Game 4 of the 1999 World Series. It drew a 25.6 rating and a 47% share in the Houston market.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/how-final-game-of-world-series-fared-in-atlanta-tv-ratings/DWZJ6ZG7WBDJJEN6HSY2TGWRGE/|title=How final game of World Series fared in Atlanta TV ratings|first=Tim|last=Tucker|newspaper=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |accessdate=February 11, 2024|via=AJC.com}}

For the 24th consecutive year, ESPN Radio aired the series in the United States, led by Dan Shulman on play-by-play with Jessica Mendoza and Eduardo Pérez as color analysts; Kevin Winter hosted the pregame coverage with analyst Chris Singleton and reporters Buster Olney and Marly Rivera, while Olney provided in-game reports and conducted postgame interviews.{{cite news |url=https://barrettsportsmedia.com/2021/10/07/espn-radio-mlb-postseason/ |title=ESPN Radio Doles Out MLB Postseason Assignments |website=Barrett Sports Media |date=October 7, 2021 |accessdate=October 23, 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2021/10/espn-radio-serves-as-national-audio-home-of-the-2021-world-series-atlanta-braves-vs-houston-astros/|title=ESPN Radio Serves as National Audio Home of the 2021 World Series: Atlanta Braves vs. Houston Astros|last=Hughes|first=Katie|website=ESPN Press Room|date=October 26, 2021|accessdate=October 26, 2021}}

This was the first World Series to be broadcast on TUDN Radio, which had acquired national rights to Spanish-language MLB radio broadcasts in early October.{{Cite web|title=TUDN Adds National Spanish Language Rights To MLB|url=https://radioinsight.com/headlines/213692/tudn-adds-national-spanish-language-rights-to-mlb/|access-date=2021-11-07|website=RadioInsight|date=October 5, 2021 |language=en-US}} TUDN Radio commentators included Jose Napoles, Jesus Acosta, Alberto Ferreiro, and Luis Quiñones.{{Cite web|title=TUDN Adds National Spanish Language Rights To MLB|url=https://radioinsight.com/headlines/213692/tudn-adds-national-spanish-language-rights-to-mlb/|access-date=2021-11-06|website=RadioInsight|date=October 5, 2021 |language=en-US}}

The flagship radio stations for both teams also produced local broadcasts of each game. In Atlanta, WCNN and WAOS broadcast in English and Spanish respectively, KBME (in English) and KLAT (in Spanish) aired the games in the Houston market. Outside of those stations, MLB rules dictated that team-affiliated stations carry the ESPN Radio broadcasts of the games.{{Cite web|date=2021-10-26|title=Your 2021 World Series broadcast primer and announcing schedule|url=https://awfulannouncing.com/schedules/your-2021-world-series-broadcast-primer-and-announcing-schedule.html|access-date=2021-11-06|website=Awful Announcing|language=en-US}}

The much maligned Braves bullpen turned out to be the team's biggest strength during their World Series run. The bullpen was dominant throughout the postseason with the late-inning combination of Will Smith, Tyler Matzek, Luke Jackson, and A.J. Minter leading the way. Closer Will Smith struggled at times during the regular season having posted a 3.44 ERA, particularly with a 5.40 ERA during the dog days of a close NL East division race in August. Those struggles however disappeared for Smith in the postseason, as the veteran reliever worked 11 consecutive scoreless innings in October allowing only five hits, three walks, and eight strikeouts with six saves.{{cite web |title=Atlanta Braves: The Bullpen is the Overall Postseason MVP |url=https://tomahawktake.com/2021/11/07/atlanta-braves-bullpen-overall-postseason-mvp/ |website=Tomahawk Take |date=7 November 2021}} As it turned out, 2021 would be the last full season the bullpen was together as Smith was traded to Houston at the 2022 trade deadline, Jackson suffered an elbow injury in April 2022, and Matzek had a similar injury before the start of the 2022 postseason in October. Smith would later have his place in World Series history when he became the first player ever to win three consecutive World Series on three separate teams (the Braves in 2021, the Houston Astros in 2022, and the Texas Rangers in 2023).{{cite web |title=Will Smith is the first player to win 3 straight World Series with 3 different teams |url=https://www.npr.org/2023/11/03/1210390377/will-smith-is-the-first-player-to-win-3-straight-world-series-with-3-different-t |website=NPR |access-date=30 December 2024}} The media came up with the nickname 'The Night Shift' for the bullpen, but Luke Jackson later stated he was the one that came up with the name.{{cite web |last1=Bowman |first1=Mark |title=Who named 'The Night Shift'? Let them (kind of) explain |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/luke-jackson-says-he-came-up-with-the-night-shift |website=MLB.com |language=en}}

The Braves celebrated their championship with a parade on November 5, with fitting nods to Henry "Hank" Aaron, the franchise legend who died in January at the age of 86. On their parade route, the Braves stopped through Georgia State University's Center Parc Stadium complex including the landing spot of Aaron's 715th home run where Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium used to stand. Once the parade reached Cumberland and Truist Park, the crowd was addressed by Henry's widow, Billye Aaron, in a fitting tribute to the slugger.{{Cite web |title=Braves World Series parade: Top moments as Atlanta celebrates first MLB championship since 1995 |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/braves-world-series-parade-top-moments-as-atlanta-celebrates-first-mlb-championship-since-1995/live/ |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=CBSSports.com |date=November 5, 2021 |language=en}} The Braves honored Hank Aaron during the 2021 season by including his jersey number 44 on the back of the team caps, along with the jersey number 35 in honor of Phil Niekro, who died one month earlier in December 2020. They also painted 44 in the midfield at Truist Park. Aaron was also honored in the design of the team's World Series championship ring, which includes 755 total diamonds to commemorate Aaron's career home runs, and 44 emerald-cut diamonds to represent Aaron's jersey number with the Braves.{{Cite web |date=2022-04-10 |title=Diamonds and pearls: Braves receive title rings |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33709431/atlanta-braves-receive-world-series-rings-featuring-1871-karat-white-gold-755-diamonds-yes-pearls |access-date=2022-10-22 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}

This was the start of three straight National League teams making the World Series with a sub-90 win total. The Phillies in 2022 and Diamondbacks in 2023 made it to the Fall Classic, but were defeated by an AL team.

Freddie Freeman, who homered in the final two games of the 2021 World Series, would hit a home run in four consecutive games to start the 2024 World Series, breaking a record for most consecutive World Series home runs, and, to go along with that, win the world series that same year.{{Cite web |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |date=October 30, 2024 |title=Red-hot Freeman sets record with HR in SIXTH straight World Series game |url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/freddie-freeman-homers-in-6th-straight-world-series-game |access-date=31 October 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}} By 2022, Freeman was on the Dodgers, after leaving Atlanta via free agency after 2021.{{cite news |last1=Kepner |first1=Tyler |title=Freddie Freeman Signs with Dodgers for $162 Million |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/17/sports/baseball/freddie-freeman-dodgers.html |access-date=April 13, 2022 |work=The New York Times |date=March 17, 2022}}

Following the conclusion of the season, the Astros lost five players to free agency: Carlos Correa to the Minnesota Twins, Zack Greinke to the Kansas City Royals, Marwin González to the New York Yankees, Kendall Graveman to the Chicago White Sox, and Brooks Raley to the Tampa Bay Rays.{{cite web |title=Houston Astros 2022 Free Agency Tracker |url=https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/free-agents/2022/houston-astros/ |website=Spotrac |access-date=23 October 2022}} Justin Verlander was the lone free agent to re-sign with the Astros, returning on a two-year deal with a player option in the second year after missing all of the 2021 season.{{cite news |last1=McTaggart |first1=Brian |title=Verlander's 2-year deal with Astros official |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlander-re-signs-with-astros |access-date=23 October 2022 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=14 December 2021}}

On August 2, 2022, the Astros traded starter Jake Odorizzi for Braves reliever Will Smith. Smith was the pitcher who recorded the last out of the World Series, making him the first pitcher ever to be traded the following season to the opposing team that he recorded the last out against.{{cite web |title=World Series Final Outs {{!}} Baseball Almanac |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/ws/world_series_final_outs.shtml |website=www.baseball-almanac.com |access-date=2 August 2022 |language=en-us}}{{cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Dayn |title=Braves acquire starter Jake Odorizzi from Astros for reliever Will Smith, per report |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/braves-acquire-starter-jake-odorizzi-from-astros-for-reliever-will-smith-per-report/ |website=CBSSports.com |date=August 2, 2022 |access-date=2 August 2022 |language=en}}

The Astros repeated as American League West champions in 2022, their sixth consecutive postseason appearance and fifth division title in six seasons. They swept the Seattle Mariners in the Division Series and the New York Yankees in the Championship Series to return to and win the World Series by beating the Philadelphia Phillies in six games.{{cite news |last1=Axisa |first1=Mike |title=Mariners vs. Astros score: Jeremy Peña breaks scoreless tie in 18th, Houston sweeps ALDS |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mariners-vs-astros-score-jeremy-pena-breaks-scoreless-tie-in-18th-houston-sweeps-alds/live/ |access-date=23 October 2022 |work=CBSSports.com |publisher=Paramount Global |date=15 October 2022}}

This was Joe Buck's last World Series, after he had called 24 World Series in 26 years (1996, 1998, 2000-2021), the longest run of any play-by-play announcer on network television calling the World Series. Buck and his NFL broadcast partner Troy Aikman signed a lucrative multi-year deal with ESPN, which saw them become the new lead broadcast team of Monday Night Football beginning in the 2022 NFL season.{{cite web |title=ESPN signs Buck, Aikman to be new MNF voices |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/33518376/joe-buck-troy-aikman-sign-multiyear-deals-espn-voices-monday-night-football |website=ESPN.com |access-date=9 August 2022 |language=en |date=16 March 2022}} Fox would promote number two play-by-play baseball announcer Joe Davis to replace Buck's spot for the regular season, All-Star, and postseason games. Buck did not call another MLB game until July 29, 2024, when he called a St. Louis Cardinals home game against the Texas Rangers for Bally Sports Midwest alongside Chip Caray.{{cite web |title=Joe Buck returns to MLB booth to call Rangers-Cardinals game with Chip Caray |url=https://www.ksdk.com/article/sports/mlb/stl-cardinals/joe-buck-to-call-cardinals-rangers-game-chip-caray/63-188950fe-683a-4454-ba59-51100c989ab7 |website=KSDK.com |access-date=March 15, 2025 |language=en |date=29 July 2024}} Despite joining ESPN, it was not until 2025 that Buck called his first MLB game for the network, an Opening Day game between the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees.{{cite press release|title=Joe Buck to Call Milwaukee Brewers at New York Yankees Opening Day Game March 27 Exclusively on ESPN|url=https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2025/02/joe-buck-to-call-milwaukee-brewers-at-new-york-yankees-opening-day-game-march-27-exclusively-on-espn/|website=ESPN Press Room|date=February 18, 2025|access-date=March 28, 2025}}

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