As we advance through the MLB Playoffs, the highly anticipated Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) featuring the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies is now on the horizon, with the series shifting to the City of Brotherly Love. After a dramatic Game 2, can we expect a similar showdown in this pivotal Game 3?

 

In Game 2 of the NLDS against the Phillies, it appeared as if the Atlanta Braves were on the brink of defeat. They found themselves trailing 4-0 after the fifth inning and 4-1 after the sixth, struggling against the stellar performance of right-hander Zack Wheeler, who tallied 10 strikeouts during the night.

 

Wheeler’s lone critical mistake occurred when Braves’ catcher Travis d’Arnaud launched a two-run homer into the left field, narrowing the gap for the Braves. Wheeler was subsequently relieved from the mound, and the momentum took a decisive shift in favor of the Braves.

From that point onward, the night unfolded in unforgettable fashion, cementing its status as one of the most remarkable games in NLDS history. Austin Riley delivered a clutch two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth, propelling the Braves into a 5-4 lead. Nevertheless, the ninth inning brought more drama, with Bryce Harper positioned on first base. Nick Castellanos hit a deep fly ball into right-center field, miraculously caught by centerfielder Michael Harris II. Harris swiftly fired the ball toward second base, recognizing that Harper had strayed from the bag without tagging up. Ozzie Albies initially missed Harris’ throw but was bailed out by Riley, who side-armed it to first base, doubling up Harper and sealing the game to level the series.

 

With the Braves having successfully evened the series in Game 2, the pressure on Game 3 of the NLDS has considerably eased. Their upcoming challenge involves a trip to Philadelphia, where they will face the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, the Phillies’ formidable home ballpark.

Reflecting on last year’s postseason, it’s evident that the Phillies’ home crowd generates a significant advantage. Their passionate fans and electrifying energy can swiftly unnerve the visiting team. For the Braves, the task at hand is to secure at least one victory there, a far more manageable proposition than having to secure two victories, as would have been the case without their Game 2 comeback.

 

Now, Game 3 of the NLDS no longer carries the same level of pressure for the Braves. They are well aware that they have the capability to win, and the momentum has shifted, no longer firmly held by the Phillies, as it appeared in the latter stages of Game 2. However, the question arises: what must the Braves do to claim the series lead with a victory in Game 3?