Braves and Phillies clash in opening game of NL Wild Card series

On Tuesday at 2 p.m. EDT, the Atlanta Braves will open the NL Wild Card series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves, who finished first in the NL East with a 94-68 record and a strong 52-29 home performance, will start right-hander Chris Sale, who boasts a 14-9 record, a 2.16 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP. The Phillies, second in the NL East at 88-74, will counter with left-hander Jesus Luzardo, posting a 14-5 record, a 2.86 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP.

This is the 14th meeting between the clubs this season, with Atlanta holding a 9-4 advantage. Key offensive contributors include Braves' Matt Olson and Ronald Acuna Jr., and Phillies' Kyle Schwarber and Bryson Stott. Both teams carry several injuries, but the series opener proceeds with the listed starters.