The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies faced off in Game 2 of their highly anticipated series, and the matchup did not disappoint. With a nail-biting finish, the Braves managed to come out on top, taking a crucial 2-0 lead in the series. Here are five key moments that stood out from the thrilling contest.
Key Moment #1: Ronald Acuña Jr.'s Leadoff Homer
The Braves wasted no time getting on the board, as Ronald Acuña Jr. led off the game with a powerful home run to left-center field. This marked the young slugger's second leadoff homer of the season, and it gave the Braves an instant 1-0 lead.
Statistical Significance
Acuña's leadoff blast was the Braves' 15th of the season, the most in the National League. This type of aggressive start has been a hallmark of the Braves' success this year, and it set the tone for a thrilling contest.
Key Moment #2: Bryce Harper's Mammoth Homer
The Phillies' star outfielder, Bryce Harper, responded to Acuña's blast with a monstrous homer of his own in the top of the second inning. Harper's shot sailed over the center-field wall, giving the Phillies their first run of the game and cutting the Braves' lead to 2-1.
Hitting the Ball Out of the Yard
Harper's home run was his 25th of the season, and it showcased his incredible raw power. The blast had an exit velocity of 111.4 mph and traveled an estimated 424 feet, making it one of the longest homers hit this season.
Key Moment #3: Dansby Swanson's Defensive Gem
With the Braves clinging to a 3-2 lead in the top of the seventh, shortstop Dansby Swanson made a spectacular defensive play to rob the Phillies' J.T. Realmuto of a hit. Swanson ranged to his right to snag a sharp grounder and then made a quick, accurate throw to first base, nipping Realmuto by a step.
Swanson's Shutdown
Swanson's play was a game-changer, as it prevented the Phillies from tying the contest. The Braves' shortstop has been outstanding defensively all season, and this play showcased his impressive range and accuracy.
Key Moment #4: Luke Jackson's Scoreless Eighth
With the Braves still holding a slim 3-2 lead, Luke Jackson took the mound in the top of the eighth inning. The hard-throwing right-hander was dominant, retiring the Phillies in order on just 12 pitches.
Closing the Door
Jackson's scoreless frame set the stage for closer Will Smith to shut the door in the ninth. Jackson's performance has been crucial to the Braves' bullpen success this season, and this outing was no exception.
Key Moment #5: Will Smith's Save
With the Braves clinging to a 3-2 lead, Will Smith took the mound in the top of the ninth inning. The veteran closer was flawless, retiring the Phillies in order on just 10 pitches, securing the save and giving the Braves a 2-0 series lead.
Locking Down the Win
Smith's save was his 23rd of the season, and it capped off a thrilling Braves victory. The win marked the Braves' fifth consecutive victory over the Phillies and put them in the driver's seat as they head into Game 3.
The Braves' victory marked a crucial turning point in the series, and the team will look to carry this momentum into Game 3. With their eyes set on a sweep, the Braves will aim to take down the Phillies once again and secure a decisive advantage in the series.
What was the final score of the Braves vs. Phillies Game 2?
+The Braves won the game 3-2.
Who hit the leadoff home run for the Braves?
+Ronald Acuña Jr. hit the leadoff home run for the Braves.
Who got the save for the Braves?
+Will Smith got the save for the Braves.