MLB News: The Atlanta Braves have clinched the NL East

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The ambiance at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday night was electrifying. The Atlanta Braves emerged victorious, clinching the MLB National League East division title with a compelling 4-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. But the journey to this moment was an epic tale of persistence, strategy, and sheer athletic prowess. 

2023 has been the season for the Braves and their MLB Lines seem to agree. 

These Braves have always shown they have a team full of stars, but on this pivotal night, two shone the brightest. Austin Riley commenced the action with a powerful two-run homer in the very first inning. Not stopping at that, he further secured the team’s dominance with a sacrifice fly in the third. It wasn’t just about Riley, though. Spencer Strider, with his unparalleled precision, kept the Phillies at bay. With an innings tally of seven, allowing just one run and four hits, Strider recorded his 17th win, leading the majors in this statistic.

The Phillies did manage to make a mark in the first inning, courtesy of Bryston Stott’s two-out single after Strider momentarily seemed vulnerable. But the Atlanta sensation found his rhythm swiftly, retiring 19 of the last 22 opponents. With his two walks and nine strikeouts, this became the 21st occasion in his 29 starts this season where Strider registered at least nine Ks.

The Braves’ Journey to the Top

The Braves have a fascinating narrative that took them to this moment. From May 31 to July 8, they displayed remarkable form, winning 28 out of 33 games. They had insanely favorable MLB Odds. This incredible run fortified their position at the top, establishing a lead they never relinquished.

Comparatively, last season at times showcased a different Braves. The New York Mets were the ones leading the charge, with the Braves lagging behind significantly at 10 1/2 games from the top at one point. Yet, the Braves made a dramatic comeback, sweeping the Mets in an unforgettable Atlanta showdown, eventually sealing the division.

Fast forward to 2023, the Braves have not only dominated their division but have also made an undeniable mark in the National League and across all of baseball. Their impressive 96-50 record is a testament to their commitment and skill.

With the division title in the bag, you might think the Braves could relax. Far from it. They’re on track to match, if not exceed, the 106-win record set by the 1998 Braves – the highest in nearly 150 years of the franchise’s history. Every win from now not only contributes to this historic record but also ensures the Braves’ home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Should they continue on this trajectory, after a first-round bye, they would find themselves up against the victor of the Cubs-Phillies Wild Card Series. All eyes will also be on the Los Angeles Dodgers, a potential formidable opponent, should both teams advance in the playoffs.

What about the Phillies?

For the Phillies, while the division title may have slipped away early in the season, all hope isn’t lost. Despite recent setbacks, their focus now pivots to securing home-field advantage for the Wild Card series. Their current 1 1/2-game lead over the Cubs will be crucial, especially since they hold the tiebreaker advantage. The Phillies have consistently showcased better performances at Citizens Bank Park, so it’s clear they’ll be pulling out all the stops to ensure they maintain their home advantage.

In conclusion, as the regular season winds down, the unfolding drama in baseball has fans at the edge of their seats. The Braves’ dominant journey and the Phillies’ strategic shift in focus epitomize the passion, skill, and unpredictability that define this great sport.
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