The Atlanta Braves played a competitive game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday night. However, Philadelphia ultimately earned an 8-5 win in extra innings. Nevertheless, the Braves continue to lead the National League East with a 19-9 overall record. Meanwhile, the Phillies are just 9-18.
Bryce Elder and Zack Wheeler started the game for the Braves and Phillies. Elder turned in seven innings of three-run baseball. He has been a tremendous surprise for Atlanta this season, especially with all of the injuries the team has dealt with.
Wheeler, meanwhile, made his return from the IL on Saturday night. The right-handed pitcher went five innings and allowed two runs. It was a strong season debut for him.
The game was tied 4-4 heading into the 10th inning. Philadelphia scored four runs in a big top of the 10th, however. Atlanta answered with only one run in the bottom of the 10th en route to the defeat.
Offensively, the Braves had nine hits and the aforementioned five runs. Ozzie Albies led the way with three hits. Matt Olson and Michael Harris II both added two hits as well. The Braves did not hit any home runs in the contest, but they still managed to have a strong overall offensive game.
Atlanta's bullpen did not perform well, though. The relievers gave up a total of five runs after Elder's departure from the ball game.
Although the matchup did not end as the Braves hoped, the team has still enjoyed a stellar start to the season.
The Braves and Phillies will play the final contest of their three-game series on Sunday. The series is now tied 1-1. Atlanta earned a 5-3 win on Friday to begin the series before Philadelphia's victory on Saturday.
Aaron Nola (1-2, 5.06 ERA) will start for Philadelphia on Sunday. He features the potential of a star but he has struggled so far in 2026. Meanwhile, the Braves will turn to ace Chris Sale (4-1, 2.79 ERA) on Sunday. Sale once again looks like one of the best pitchers in the game.
Philadelphia is hoping to make a statement with a series win on the road. The Phillies have struggled all season so getting the job done on Sunday would be a momentum boost. Atlanta is looking to take care of business at home with a series-clinching victory, though.
First pitch is scheduled for 1:35 PM EST in Atlanta on Sunday afternoon.