Braves Organization Refuses to Blame Playoff Format for NLDS Loss to Phillies
In the aftermath of their NLDS loss to the Philadelphia Phillies for the second consecutive year, the Atlanta Braves organization is refusing to blame the playoff format for their early exit. Despite the long layoff between the wild-card round and the NLDS, key members of the Braves are taking responsibility for their defeat.
Braves pitcher Spencer Strider, who fell short against the Phillies in Games 1 and 4, addressed the issue head-on, stating, “You’re in control of your focus, your competitiveness, your energy. If having five days means you can’t make the adjustment, you have nobody to blame but yourself.”
It is clear that the Braves made efforts to switch up their preparation for this year’s playoffs. Instead of simply taking batting practice during the five days they had to wait between rounds, they played intrasquad games in front of fans. Pitchers also went deeper into these games. However, despite these changes, it was not enough to recreate the intensity of facing a team like the Phillies or playing at Citizens Bank Park.
The atmosphere and home-field advantage provided by the Phillies were key factors in their victory. Michael Harris II of The Athletic pointed out that the Phillies have consistently done everything right in the postseason, including getting their fans involved early and putting pressure on the opposing team. This kind of support and pressure can make a significant impact throughout the game.
The Braves’ best players, such as Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson, struggled in the NLDS, going a combined 6-for-30 with only one extra-base hit. In contrast, the Phillies’ top performers delivered when it mattered most. Pitching was also a major factor, with the Phillies’ staff stifling the Braves’ lineup, holding them to a .161 batting average aside from Austin Riley.
The depth of the Phillies’ pitching staff, both in terms of starting rotation and bullpen, was evident in the NLDS. Manager Rob Thomson demonstrated his aggressiveness by using multiple pitchers in high-leverage situations, making it difficult for the Braves to mount comebacks. The Braves, on the other hand, lacked the same level of depth in their pitching staff, particularly in terms of left-handed options, which may have influenced the outcome of crucial moments in the series.
Looking forward, the Braves recognize the need to change their approach and improve their focus and preparation for the postseason. Strider acknowledged the Phillies’ energy and confidence, calling for the Braves to confront the harsh reality that they must adapt in order to achieve different results.
As the last team remaining from the East Coast, the Phillies find themselves in a favorable position with home-field advantage in the NLCS and potentially the World Series. Despite not winning the NL East, they are benefiting from their regular-season success. However, the challenge will continue as they face a tough opponent in the Arizona Diamondbacks.
While the debate about the playoff format continues, the Braves are taking a different approach by acknowledging their own shortcomings and taking responsibility for their defeat. It remains to be seen how they will adjust and improve in future postseasons to avoid a repeat of their early exits.