It didn’t take the Atlanta Braves and star outfielder Jorge Soler too long to make a dent against the Houston Astros in Game 1 of the 2021 World Series.
Facing Houston starter Framber Valdez as the Braves’ lead-off hitter in the top of the first, Soler blasted a home run over the left field fence inside Minute Maid Park to give Atlanta a 1-0 lead. It came on the third pitch of the series.
Shockingly, this represents the first time since the World Series debuted back in October of 1903 that it has started with a home run.
That’s something else right there.
Jorge Soler could also end up being a major X-factor in this series. He was acquired from the Kansas City Royals during the regular season, but only appeared in five postseason games up until Tuesday night due to a battle with COVID-19.