Braves Aim to Extend NL East Lead Against Phillies

The Atlanta Braves began their four-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies with a 5-2 win on Friday, aiming to extend their lead in the National League East.

In the opener, Braves pitcher Chris Sale allowed two runs over six innings, while Mauricio Dubon contributed a two-run homer. Ronald Acuna Jr. added three hits, including an RBI single. The victory marked Atlanta's ninth win in their last eleven games, putting them five games ahead of the Phillies.

Philadelphia's Cristopher Sanchez pitched well, giving up three runs in six innings, but Alec Bohm's two-run homer was not enough to secure a win. The teams have six remaining matchups this season, with Atlanta's Martin Perez set to pitch on Saturday against Philadelphia's Zack Wheeler.