Phillies vs. Braves NLDS Game 1 starting lineups and pitching matchup 2023
In Game 1 of the National League Division Series, the Philadelphia Phillies secured a surprising shutout victory against the Atlanta Braves with a final score of 3-0. This year’s Game 1 differed significantly from the previous season’s high-scoring affair, as it was marked by excellent defense and pitching.
Bryce Harper played a pivotal role for the Phillies, contributing to their victory in diverse ways. In the fourth inning, he reached base through a walk, advanced to second due to an errant pickoff throw, and eventually scored on Bryson Stott’s two-out single. Later, in the sixth inning, Harper crushed a solo home run at an impressive 115 mph. Harper’s dominance against the Braves in the last two postseasons continued, as he went 10 for 18 with three home runs against them.
However, the rest of the Phillies struggled at the plate, managing only two hits in 26 at-bats. Lefty Ranger Suárez provided a strong start for Philadelphia, and their bullpen, featuring relievers like Jeff Hoffman and Craig Kimbrel, excelled, keeping the Braves scoreless for the final 5 1/3 innings.
The game’s crucial moment came in the eighth inning when Trea Turner’s outstanding diving stop led to a game-ending double play. This shutout marked the first time in over two years that the Braves were held scoreless at home.
With this Game 1 victory, the Phillies now lead the series 1-0, historically a favorable position, as the team that wins Game 1 of a best-of-five series goes on to win 71% of the time. The Braves, who won 104 games during the regular season, will look to rebound in Game 2, with Max Fried taking the mound despite not pitching since September 21 due to a blister issue.
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