Following a challenging series in Miami, the Atlanta Braves are looking to regain their form as they return home to take on the Philadelphia Phillies.

Despite clinching their sixth consecutive NL East title, the Braves seemed to lose focus in Miami, and the determined Marlins, fighting for a playoff berth, capitalized on their lapse. Notably, Atlanta’s pitching staff struggled throughout the series, allowing a minimum of nine runs in each of the three games.

The Phillies present a formidable challenge, particularly if the Braves’ pitching remains unsteady. Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Bryce Harper are currently on a hot streak, all boasting OPS scores of at least 1.093 over their last 30 games.

Turner, in particular, has been scorching with 14 home runs and an impressive .762 slugging percentage during this period. After a challenging start to the season, Turner has rebounded with a 111 wRC+ and nearly 4 fWAR. Harper has also found his power, hitting 10 of his 17 home runs in the past 30 games, resembling his pre-Tommy John surgery form.

With these contributions and solid pitching, the Phillies are in a strong position to secure a playoff berth, likely as the number one wild card team. There’s a good chance they may face the Braves in the NLDS, making this series a potential preview of that matchup.

Injury-wise, Ronald Acuña Jr. missed his second consecutive game on Sunday due to a sore calf, with his condition set to be reevaluated on Monday.