The Atlanta Braves came late for much of the game and defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-4 in the second game of their series on Monday night at SunTrust Park.
In front of their fans, the Braves were facing their second straight embarrassing defeat after being defeated 3-0 on Saturday. It was still difficult for Brian Snitker’s men to get to safety, but their four shots were enough.
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A spectacular play ended the game in the bottom of the ninth inning. Nick Castellanos lifted the ball deep into the outfield, but Michael Harris removed it with a nice diving catch. The outfielder immediately returned the ball to the path where his teammates managed to pin Bryce Harper.
Atlanta finally showed signs of life in the sixth inning. With two outs against his team, Ronald Acuna Jr. got a walk and was immediately pushed to the plate by Ozzie Albies’ single.
After the confidence of pitcher Zack Wheeler – so far confident with 10 strikeouts – was shaken, the Braves moved on. In the seventh inning, Travis d’Arnaud hit a home run that ended the starter’s night, then Austin Riley hit a two-run longball in the next at-bat.
Max Fried had a difficult start to the game on the mound for the Braves. JT Realmuto noticeably extended his arms during the four rounds he worked. His replacements performed much better, beating the Phillies starting in the sixth inning. AJ Minter (1-0) added the win to his record.
This National League semifinal series continues on Wednesday in Philadelphia.