On Saturday, the Phillies will play the Braves for the second last time of the 2024 season. With both teams still in the thick of the postseason bracket, the series is bound to have some wide-ranging implications.
Despite the fact that Philadelphia maintains a five game lead over Atlanta in the NL East, it has been Atlanta who has fared better in clashes between the two sides this season. In 11 matchups to date, Atlanta has emerged victorious in seven.
"All the info you need to know for this series against the Braves! NOTE: Starting this weekend, all gates at Citizens Bank Park will open 2 hours prior to first pitch on Saturdays and Sundays." - Citizens Bank Park
After eeking out a 5-4 win in the first game of the series on Thursday, the Phillies dropped the second game of the series 7-2. Now, the Braves hold onto the third and final Wild Card spot, touting a comfortable three game lead over the New York Mets.
Saturday's game is slated to start at 7:15 p.m. EDT at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Zack Wheeler will get the ball for the Phillies against Atlanta Braves' lefthander Max Fried.
Braves vs Phillies Baseball Betting Odds
Where to Watch Braves vs Phillies
Viewing options for Saturday's game between the Braves and Phillies will depend on your location. For those based in the Philly area, Comcast Phillies will carry the broadcast. For those fans tuning in from Georgia, Bally Sports Braves has you covered.
Additionally, more and more fans are turning to streaming to take in MLB games. Among the most popular choices for fans are Peacock, fubo, and MLB.TV.
Braves vs Phillies Prediction
Coming into Saturday's game, the Braves have crossed the plate 39 times over the past week, giving them the NL's fourth-highest value over that span of time. As such, Atlanta comes into the game 7-3 over their past 10.
When it comes to pitching, the Braves also have the lead. On the season, Atlanta's 3.64 combined ERA in second in MLB, behind only the Seattle Mariners.
"Good morning! Here is an updated standings check for the NL Wild Card Race. Really makes you wish those games earlier in the season had been won, this comeback is gonna be REALLY tough to complete" - Jacob Zanolla
For the Phillies, the ace card might be Zack Wheeler. In 29 games over his career against the Braves, Wheeler has a 3.07 ERA with some 186 strikeouts. However, if Wheeler cannot stand tall, expect the Braves to take another game from their divisional rivals.
Prediction: Altanta W, 7-6