Get ready Phillies fans, the Braves are back in town this weekend at Citizens Bank Park, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. This four-game series could either solidify the Phillies’ lead in the NL East or see the Braves closing in fast.
Last week in Atlanta, the Phillies dropped two of three in a low-scoring affair, showcasing each team’s top pitchers. But now, with a series of wins under their belt, the Phillies are ready to defend their division lead against a resilient Braves team.
Both teams have been holding their ground in the standings, setting the stage for an intense weekend series. The Phillies currently top the NL East with a record of 78-55, while the Braves are nipping at their heels at 73-60.
With just over a month left in the season, every game counts, and this matchup could determine the division winner. Phillies manager Rob Thomson knows the importance of dominating at home and within the division, making this series against the Braves a crucial test.
This series is the Phillies’ last chance to gain an advantage over their long-standing rivals, the Braves, who have proven to be a tough opponent this season. With Atlanta leading the season series 6-3, the Phillies are hungry to turn the tide before the playoffs.
Shortstop Trea Turner expressed confidence in the team’s recent performance, setting the stage for an exciting showdown against the Braves. The Phillies have strategized their pitching rotation, lining up their best arms to face off against Atlanta’s formidable lineup.
Here’s a look at the probable starters for the series:
| Date | Braves Starter | Phillies Starter |
| Thu., Aug. 29 | RH Charlie Morton (7-7, 4.24) | LH Cristopher Sánchez (9-9, 3.51) |
| Fri., Aug. 30 | RH Reynaldo López (7-4, 2.02) | LH Ranger Suárez (11-5, 2.82) |
| Sat., Aug. 31 | LH Max Fried (8-7, 3.50) | RH Zack Wheeler (12-6, 2.74) |
| Sun., Sept. 1 | RH Spencer Schwellenbach (5-6, 3.72) | RH Aaron Nola (12-6, 3.30) |
With the Phillies gearing up for a crucial showdown, the stage is set for an epic battle between division rivals. Follow Nick on Twitter @itssnick and like us on Facebook at PhillyVoice Sports for all the latest updates.