In what was probably the most entertaining season I’ve been a part of, the Braves ended up right where we all expected them to be… on top of the NL East. And despite the ups and downs, it couldn’t have possibly ended better. With their backs against the wall, the Braves climbed to the top of the division, setting themselves up with an opportunity to clinch in front of their home fans. They didn’t waste any time.
Game 1 of their series against the Phillies featured a pitcher’s duel between Zack Wheeler and Charlie Morton. The Braves struck first behind a two-run single off the bat of Jorge Soler, and that’s all they would need, as Morton and Atlanta’s bullpen held the Phillies to just one run.
Game 2 was a little less nerve-racking. Max Fried, who has been the best pitcher in baseball since the All-Star break, delivered again with another gem, limiting Philadelphia to just two runs. The Braves bats would do the rest, hanging seven runs on Aaron Nola and the rest of the Phillies pitching staff, which brought the magic number to just one.
Game 3 was more of the same. This time, it was Ian Anderson who delivered, pitching six strong innings of two-run baseball. Jorge Soler got the celebration started with a home run that nearly left the stadium, and the Braves continued to pile on until the game was out of hand, clinching their fourth consecutive division title with four games in hand.
It was a night to remember at Truist Park. And honestly, for the first time since Ronald Acuña tore his ACL on that dreadful afternoon in July, things felt normal again. This team is peaking at the right time; they’ve found their mojo, and nobody wants to see them in October. Unfortunately for Milwaukee, they don’t have a choice.
You must log in to post a comment.