The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies are set to clash in a highly anticipated three-game series starting Friday night. This showdown features two of the National League East’s top teams and boasts a marquee pitching matchup.
Philadelphia’s right-hander Aaron Nola (9-4, 3.43 ERA) will take on Atlanta’s left-hander Max Fried (7-3, 2.91 ERA) in the opener. Both pitchers have performed at an All-Star level this season, adding to the excitement of this pivotal series.
The Braves enter this series after a 4-2 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Thursday, marking their fifth defeat in eight games. Meanwhile, the Phillies’ three-game winning streak was snapped by a 10-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs on Thursday. Despite this setback, Philadelphia has won eight of their last 12 games.
Earlier this season, the Braves took two out of three games from the Phillies in Philadelphia. The Phillies, who have the best record in baseball this year, currently hold a nine-game lead over the Braves in the NL East. This weekend series is crucial for Atlanta as it is their final home series before the All-Star break.
Pitching Matchup
Aaron Nola: Nola was a top target for the Braves in free agency before he re-signed with the Phillies on a seven-year, $172 million deal last November. In his last outing against the Miami Marlins, Nola pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits with nine strikeouts and no walks. Earlier this season, Nola faced the Braves and was knocked out after 4 1/3 innings, giving up seven runs (six earned) on 11 hits. Historically, Nola has a solid record against Atlanta with a 15-11 record and a 3.58 ERA in 34 career starts.
Max Fried: Fried has been stellar recently, allowing just one run in each of his last three starts. In his latest appearance against the Pittsburgh Pirates, he pitched six innings, giving up one run on six hits and three walks while striking out four. Fried emphasized the importance of focusing on the opposing lineup rather than the pitching duel. In his career against the Phillies, Fried has a 4-4 record with a 3.50 ERA over 20 appearances (14 starts). In his only start against Philadelphia this season, Fried allowed three runs in two-thirds of an inning.
Key Absences
The Phillies will be without several key players: first baseman Bryce Harper (hamstring), designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (groin), and catcher J.T. Realmuto (knee surgery). Manager Rob Thomson remains optimistic about their return, stating, “I don’t think they’re that far away.”
For the Braves, shortstop Orlando Arcia might miss more time after having an abscessed tooth pulled on Tuesday. Center fielder Michael Harris II (hamstring) has resumed running but isn’t expected back for at least a few more weeks.
Stakes and Implications
The outcome of this series could significantly impact the standings in the NL East. The Braves have a chance to narrow the gap between themselves and the Phillies, making this series crucial for their playoff aspirations. With the All-Star break approaching, both teams are looking to gain momentum and establish themselves as contenders for the second half of the season.
Head Coach Brian Snitker and the Braves are focused on maximizing this opportunity to challenge the Phillies’ division lead and set the tone for the remainder of the season.
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