ATLANTA — On Tuesday night, Ian Kennedy stepped out of the bullpen at Suntrust Park and began his jog toward the mound. It was the ninth inning, and the Kansas City Royals led the Atlanta Braves, 5-3. Kennedy had recorded an MLB-leading six saves since the All-Star break prior to the outing. But now here he was, facing a lineup filled with numerous savages in the box, looking for save No. 7 since the break.



Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson stepped into the batter’s box. From the stretch, Kennedy hurled a 93-mph fastball. Swanson fouled off the ball. Kennedy returned to the mound and fired another four-seamer that Swanson watched for strike No. 2. Kennedy then threw a third fastball, one that Swanson lined to center field for a hit.



The next batter was Freddie Freeman, who lined another single to right field. Kennedy knew he’d have his work cut out. It’s in moments like these for closers that the pressure builds. This, Kennedy has learned. No...