ATLANTA, GA – APRIL 26: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves reaches first on a single ahead of the tag from Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning during the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on Sunday, April 26, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The Atlanta Braves enjoyed an off day Thursday as they prepare for a pivotal four-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The series begins this evening at 6:40 p.m. ET.
Atlanta enters the weekend with an 83-57 record and a four-game lead over the Phillies in the NL East. The Braves have won eight of their last 10 games, while Philadelphia enters the series at 79-61 and has won seven of its last 10.
The Braves will send Chris Sale, Martín Pérez, Tyler Mahle and Bryce Elder to the mound across the four games. Philadelphia will counter with Christopher Sánchez, Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola and Jesús Luzardo.
With just a few weeks remaining in the regular season, this series carries significant weight for both clubs. Atlanta has an opportunity to create some separation in the division, while Philadelphia can make up ground with a strong showing against the Braves.
The four-game set should provide an important early September test for Atlanta as it looks to maintain control of the NL East.
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How many games do you think the Braves will win this series?