Braves Edge Phillies in Wild Card Thriller, Set to Face Dodgers in NLDS

In a dramatic wild‑card series, the Atlanta Braves won Game 1 after Austin Riley’s late‑inning homer gave them a 5‑3 lead, and closed it out with a 1‑0 series advantage. Philadelphia fought back in Game 2, with Bryce Harper’s misplay and Kyle Schwarber’s blast tying the game, Alec Bohm’s 10th‑inning homer and Andrew Painter’s save securing a 3‑2 win. The winner‑take‑all Game 3 at Truist Park saw the Braves’ offense explode: Michael Harris II’s three‑run homer, Ozzie Albies’ two‑run shot, and Matt Olson’s solo blast put Atlanta ahead 6‑1. Chris Sale closed the game, giving the Braves a 3‑0 series sweep. The victory propels Atlanta into a first‑round NLDS matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, who benefit from a rest‑filled rotation and a fully rested bullpen. The Braves, however, have momentum from three consecutive high‑stakes games and a potent lineup that could challenge the Dodgers’ pitching depth.