Nolasco Focus, Marlins Beat Braves 6-3

ATLANTA (AP) – Ricky Nolasco tossed seven strong innings amid persistent trade rumors, Justin Ruggiano hit a three-run homer and the Miami Marlins beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3 on Wednesday night.

Marlins manager Mike Redmond said before the game that Nolasco has not been affected by trade speculation and the right-hander supported that claim by giving up only two runs on six hits.

Nolasco (5-8) had no walks with seven strikeouts, giving him 1,001 for his career.

The Braves led 2-0 before Ruggiano’s homer off Mike Minor (8-4) in the fifth. Miami added a run in the sixth when Placido Polanco singled and scored on Adeiny Hechavarria’s double. Jeff Mathis added a two-run double in the eighth.

There was steady rain but no delay in the game.