Phillies Face Elimination in Game 2 as Cristopher Sanchez Brings 18-7 Record Against Braves
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 30
Phillies Face Elimination in Game 2 as Cristopher Sanchez Brings 18-7 Record Against Braves
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 30
Summary
Philadelphia enters Game 2 needing a win to extend its season after Atlanta took the opener, putting the Phillies on the brink in a format where Game 1 winners are 15-1.
Cristopher Sanchez gives the Phillies their best chance after an 18-7 season with a 2.91 ERA and 231 strikeouts, though his road form and September dip raise concern.
Atlanta seized control of the series when Austin Riley's three-run homer in the eighth erased a late Phillies lead and delivered the Game 1 comeback.
Tyler Mahle starts for the Braves with a 2.74 home ERA, and Philadelphia has managed only six earned runs off him across 23.2 innings in four starts this year.
The matchup also tests Philadelphia's taxed bullpen, increasing pressure on Sanchez to work deep against a Braves club that now has two chances to close out the series.