Game Overview
The Phillies won Game 1 (2-0) behind a dominant pitching performance from Spencer Strider, while the Braves are looking to bounce back after dropping four of their last six games. Philadelphia has been one of the best home teams in MLB, boasting an 18-8 record at Citizens Bank Park, while Atlanta has struggled on the road, going 9-19 away from home.
Starting Pitchers
| Team | Pitcher | Record | ERA | WHIP | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braves | AJ Smith-Shawver (RHP) | 3-2 | 3.51 | 1.18 | 42 |
| Phillies | Zack Wheeler (RHP) | 6-1 | 2.42 | 1.05 | 68 |
Wheeler has been dominant, ranking eighth in fWAR among all starting pitchers and 13th in ERA, while Smith-Shawver is looking to rebound after his five-game winning streak was snapped in his last outing.
Team Comparisons
| Category | Braves | Phillies |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 25-28 | 35-19 |
| Runs Per Game | 4.3 | 4.8 |
| Batting Average | .246 | .259 |
| Home Runs | 55 | 62 |
| ERA | 4.11 | 3.57 |
| Bullpen ERA | 4.79 | 3.44 |
Philadelphia has been one of the best offensive teams in MLB, ranking fifth in batting average (.259), while Atlanta has relied more on power hitting, ranking 12th in home runs (55).
Key Players to Watch
Atlanta Braves
- Ronald Acuña Jr. (OF) – 2 HR in his last three games, heating up at the plate.
- Matt Olson (1B) – Leads the Braves with 12 home runs, slugging .462.
- Marcell Ozuna (DH) – 11-for-35 in his last 10 games, with three home runs and seven RBIs.
Philadelphia Phillies
- Kyle Schwarber (OF) – 18 HR, 40 RBI, leading the Phillies in power hitting.
- Bryce Harper (1B) – Status uncertain after being hit by a pitch on his elbow in Game 1.
- Trea Turner (SS) – .305 AVG, 9 doubles, 5 home runs, providing middle-of-the-order production.
Matchup Breakdown
- Phillies’ Offense vs. Braves’ Pitching – Philadelphia ranks eighth in slugging percentage (.408), while Atlanta’s pitching staff has struggled.
- Braves’ Power vs. Phillies’ Defense – Atlanta ranks eighth in NL on-base percentage (.318), but Philadelphia has been dominant at home.
- Bullpen Battle – The Phillies’ bullpen has been strong (3.44 ERA), while the Braves’ relievers have struggled late in games.
Game Odds
Atlanta Braves 7.5
Philadelphia Phillies – 155
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 27, 2025
