The NLDS is once again featuring a showdown between the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies, setting the stage for one of the most exciting division series in the MLB Playoffs. This battle not only pits two National League East rivals against each other but also showcases two evenly-matched teams.

The Braves are coming off a historic season, where they consistently shattered franchise and league records. Spearheaded by star players like Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olson, and Spencer Strider, Atlanta clinched their second consecutive 100-plus win season (104-58) and secured their sixth consecutive division title.

However, now it’s playoff time, and all previous achievements become irrelevant as the Braves confront a familiar challenge, not only from the regular season but also from last year’s postseason. The bitter taste of defeat in the 2022 NLDS against the Phillies still lingers for the Braves, who lost the series 3-1 while being outscored 24-13. Fortunately, the Braves haven’t forgotten, and neither have the Phillies.

Can the Braves redeem themselves and seek vengeance against the Phillies in this year’s NLDS? Let’s delve into some bold predictions for the Atlanta Braves in the NLDS to find out.

1. The Braves Secure the First Two Games at Home Crucially, the Braves need to establish dominance by winning the first two games on their home turf. Their stellar performance at home was a significant factor in their 2021 playoff run, where they boasted a 7-1 record. The only loss occurred in Game 5 of the World Series against the Houston Astros. Starting the NLDS with a strong home showing could set the tone for Atlanta’s postseason aspirations.
2. Philly Proves a Tough Nut to Crack Last year, the Phillies managed to wrest one game from the Braves at Truist Park before sealing the deal in Philadelphia. If this series extends to at least Game 4, the Phillies have the upper hand, securing both games outright. The atmosphere in Philly during October baseball is known as “Red October,” a formidable challenge for visiting teams. Intriguingly, the Braves performed better against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park this season but struggled against them at home. However, postseason dynamics can be vastly different.
3. Michael Harris II Emerges as the Unofficial NLDS MVP While there might not be an official MVP award for the divisional rounds, one player often shines brightly and propels their team to the next stage. Michael Harris II could fill this role for the Braves. With standout performances, he might not only elevate his status but also provide the critical edge Atlanta needs to progress further.
4. Braves and Phillies Take It to a Decisive Game 5 Expect a slugfest in this series, featuring two power-packed offenses capable of launching balls out of the park at a moment’s notice. However, home-field advantage will be pivotal in determining the series winner. In this scenario, the Braves hold that advantage. If the series reaches Game 5, the Braves have a good chance to secure victory and advance to the NLCS, albeit by a narrow margin.