The Phillies have no excuse not to finish a comeback vs. Braves

Key Points:

• The Phillies are set to start Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler in Game 3 against the Braves, aiming to become just the fourth team in the new postseason format to win a wild-card series after dropping Game 1.
• Key to the Phillies' advantage is Atlanta's pitching uncertainty, as the Braves plan to use reliever Ray Kerr as an opener and Grant Holmes as a bulk reliever, both of whom have previously held the Phillies scoreless.
• Phillies pitchers Cristopher Sánchez and Andrew Painter delivered strong performances in Game 2, helping the team force a decisive Game 3 where Nola and Wheeler are expected to lead the pitching effort.
• Bryce Harper’s redemption homer in Game 2 provided momentum for the Phillies, who now have the opportunity to capitalize on their pitching depth and secure the series win.
• If the Phillies win, they will face the Dodgers in the NLDS starting Saturday, with pitching plans likely involving Painter as an opener and careful management of starter rest to maximize effectiveness in the series.