Jarred Kelenic hit a solo homer, rookie AJ Smith-Shawver worked 4 1/3 three-hit innings in his first start of the season and the Atlanta Braves topped the Chicago Cubs 3-0 on Thursday.
The Braves have won two straight games and three of four after a four-game skid.
Smith-Shawver, one of Atlanta’s top pitching prospects, combined with five relievers for a four-hitter as the Braves posted their major-league best eighth shutout. The 21-year-old right-hander, recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett for the game, struck out four and walked two.
The rookie made five starts in three call-ups last season.