Phillies-Braves predictions: NLDS picks for MLB playoff
The Phillies are coming off their first playoff series win since 2010. They take on the Braves in a National League Division Series. Game 1 is at 1:07 p.m. Tuesday. Ranger Suárez is starting for the Phillies against the Atlanta Braves’ Max Fried.
The Phillies swept the Cardinals without much help from their lineup. Bryce Harper's home run on Saturday could be what he needed after a quiet September. Harper has strong numbers against Atlanta’s first two starters.
Phillies are coming off a sweep of the Cardinals. Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola have proven they can pitch in big games. Braves rookie Spencer Strider might not be available.
The Braves finished third in the majors in runs (789) and second in home runs with 249. The Braves won the last series against the Phillies 2-5 in September. Ranger Suárez is expected to start the series opener Tuesday afternoon. If the Phils get gems from Wheeler and Nola, they can advance to the National League Championship Series.
The Phillies are playing with house money. The Braves are the defending champions. The Phillies won't be able to win the whole game. They are learning. But they are not there yet. Braves will win in four.
The Braves are 65/35 favourites to win the NLDS. The Phillies need to jump on a rusty Braves team in Game 1 and then get shutdown performances from Nola and Wheeler.
The Phillies are playing as if they have nothing to lose. They are the lowest seed in the National League. The Braves are great, but here's the kiss of death.
