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Braves Face Phillies in Must-Win Showdown Tonight

9/2/2025

45 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Braves play the Phillies tonight, trying to avoid a four-game sweep after losing the first three games.
Hurston Waldrep, holding a 0.90 ERA, will start for Atlanta; Jesus Luzardo will pitch for Philadelphia.
Bryce Harper, currently in a slump, may perform better against Waldrep, who has difficulties with left-handed hitters.
The Dodgers aim to prevent a sweep against the Diamondbacks, starting RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

History

Historical Context

The Atlanta Braves won the World Series in 1995, showcasing a formidable pitching staff led by Greg Maddux, who had a remarkable ERA of 1.63. This victory followed the Braves' previous two consecutive World Series appearances, while the Philadelphia Phillies, who upset the Braves in the 1993 NLCS, returned to postseason play in 2022, highlighting the ongoing rivalry and competitive nature of Major League Baseball.

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Story summary

The Braves play the Phillies tonight, trying to avoid a four-game sweep after losing the first three games.
Hurston Waldrep, holding a 0.90 ERA, will start for Atlanta; Jesus Luzardo will pitch for Philadelphia.
Bryce Harper, currently in a slump, may perform better against Waldrep, who has difficulties with left-handed hitters.
The Dodgers aim to prevent a sweep against the Diamondbacks, starting RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

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