When Bryce Harper sent a Kenley Jansen fastball over the right field wall to put the Phillies (20-23) ahead 5-4 in the top of the ninth inning at Truist Park on Tuesday evening, Braves fans envisioned another heartbreaking loss was inevitable for this Braves team that has struggled plenty so far this season.
But Dansby Swanson, Ronald Acuña Jr., and game hero William Contreras had other plans for the Braves (20-23) as they spear headed a walk off victory, 6-5, with timely hitting and aggressive base running.
This display of offensive punch was good enough to convince Braves announcer Chip Caray that the Braves’ line up may be beginning to round into shape.
“They scored a bunch of runs, they strung together hits, and their approach was terrific” was how Caray described what the Braves can do when they are playing well as an offensive unit.
This is the type of hitting and execution that manager Brian Snitker envisions his team should be able to display on a more consistent basis.
It’s also the type of hitting that makes the Braves a hard team to beat when they are playing well.
“When the Braves have been at their best, they are never out of a game, regardless of the score” said Caray when reflecting to Andy what the Braves can do when they are playing up to their talent level.
The Braves will look to take game three of the four game series tonight when Charlie Morton (3-3, 4.95 ERA) takes the mound.
First pitch is scheduled for 7:20 pm