Chance to Start Fresh — Series Preview: Phillies at Braves, June 27-29

The Phillies travel to Atlanta, Georgia, in hopes of starting fresh after a three-game sweep from the Houston Astros.

While in Houston, the Phillies’ bats failed to provide for the phenomenal starting pitching performances, as the Phillies scored one run in their three games. The spontaneous struggles at the dish throughout the entire lineup are the top reason the Phillies received the sweep.

The Last Time the Phillies Faced the Braves

The Phillies hosted the Braves at Citizens Bank Park a month ago, with the series opener on May 27th. The Phillies took two games of three during that series, even though a controversial playing style from Atlanta. During that series, Braves pitchers hit a lot of batters, including Bryce Harper, who missed important time after. The Phillies’ bats and pitching showed up when it mattered to beat Atlanta twice in two very close games.

Since that series, Atlanta has continued to struggle and fall behind, as they currently sit five games under .500 at 37-42. This season’s themes for Atlanta, however, are not something the Phillies should take lightly, as these next three games are essential to Philadelphia. Falling in and losing these games in Atlanta will hurt the Phillies all too much. Though Atlanta is not the toughest opponent, the Phillies need to step it up and prevent danger from starting.

Offense Needs to Perform in Atlanta

It seems the Phillies used all of their runs during the series against the New York Mets, as the offense did not show up during the three games in Houston. Hitters such as Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, Alec Bohm, and Nick Castellanos, who underperformed, need to return to their composed selves in Atlanta.

The Phillies, who were shut out two games in a row and for 26.2 straight innings, cannot fall deeper into their skid, especially with recent pitching performances like the ones they have gotten lately. They need to jump on these struggling Braves pitchers early in the games and strike with runners on. The Braves have struggled when pressure is put on them; this is a perfect opportunity for the Phillies’ bats.

Maintaining Elite Pitching

In Houston, all three starters in Ranger Suarez, Zack Wheeler, and Cristopher Sanchez all received quality starts in their respective games. Each starter only gave up one earned run while recording a combined 26 strikeouts. While the Phillies were swept, the starting pitching has never been more consistent and dominant.

In Atlanta, probable starters include Mick Abel, Jesus Luzardo, and Ranger Suarez. All three have the ability to contain Atlanta’s offense, just like in Houston. The Phillies holding the Braves is essential to this series, as the Phillies’ offense will be looking to rebound in a huge way this weekend.

Game Times and Broadcasts

Friday, June 27, 7:15 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Philadelphia, 94.1 WIP, WTTM 1680

Saturday, June 28, 7:15 p.m. ET, FOX, 94.1 WIP, WTTM 1680

Sunday, June 29, 1:35 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Philadelphia, 94.1 WIP, WTTM 1680

Probable Pitching Matchups

Game 1: Mick Abel (RHP, 2-1, 3.47 ERA) vs. Bryce Elder (RHP, 2-4, 4.77 ERA)

Game 2: Jesus Luzardo (LHP, 7-3, 4.08 ERA) vs. Spencer Schwellenbach (RHP, 6-4, 3.21 ERA)

Game 3: Ranger Suarez (LHP, 6-2, 2.08 ERA) vs. Spencer Strider (RHP, 3-5, 4.07 ERA)

By the Numbers

• Records
• Phillies: 47-33
• Braves: 37-43

• Run Differential 
• Phillies: 37
• Braves: 21

• Runs Scored Per Game 
• Phillies: 4.61
• Braves: 4.20

• Runs Allowed Per Game 
• Phillies: 4.14
• Braves: 3.89

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