Braves 5, Marlins 1
Brooks Conrad hit a three-run homer and Derek Lowe delivered a strong performance on three days' rest as the Atlanta Braves completed a three-game sweep with a 5-1 triumph over the Florida Marlins on Wednesday.
David Ross went 3-for-4 with an RBI double for the Braves, who moved two games ahead of San Diego in the NL wild-card race. The Padres play later Wednesday.
After wasting an opportunity in the second inning, Atlanta rallied for four runs in the third to take control. Matt Diaz and Derrek Lee drew one-out walks and Ross hit one of his three doubles two batters later to plate the game's first run.
Conrad then swatted an 0-1 offering from Andrew Miller over the wall in left-center field for his eighth home run of the year and a 4-0 bulge. Pinch-hitter Eric Hinske drew a bases-loaded walk in the eighth to force in the Braves' final run.
Lowe (16-12) extended his personal winning streak to five games, allowing one run and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings. The veteran, who entered with a 9.35 ERA in two starts against Florida this season, walked one and struck out nine.
Miller (1-5) surrendered four runs and four hits in three innings en route to his fifth straight loss.
Mike Stanton hit an RBI single for Florida, which has scored just five runs over its last four games.