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Braves game today delivered a dramatic postseason turnaround as Austin Riley’s three-run homer lifted Atlanta to a 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026.
Riley’s eighth-inning blast erased Philadelphia’s 3-2 advantage and gave the Braves an early lead in the best-of-three series. The victory also placed the Phillies in a must-win situation ahead of Wednesday’s second game.
Braves Game Today Turns on Riley’s Explosive Homer
The decisive moment came against Philadelphia All-Star closer Jhoan Duran, whose early appearance was one of the biggest storylines of the night. Interim Phillies manager Don Mattingly called on Duran in the seventh inning, hoping his most trusted reliever could protect a narrow lead and cover the final three innings.
Duran retired the side in the seventh, making the aggressive strategy appear successful. However, the eighth inning quickly unraveled. Michael Harris II opened the critical sequence with a two-out single, and Ozzie Albies was hit by a pitch. Riley then drove a three-run shot into the seats, sending Atlanta in front and sparking a loud celebration.
According to the Associated Press, Duran finished with three runs allowed on two hits in two innings. He threw 27 pitches and was charged with the loss, while the Phillies could not recover during the final inning.
Mattingly Defends Bold Bullpen Decision
After the game, Mattingly explained that the decision was based on the situation rather than a specific matchup. He said the Phillies wanted their best reliever on the mound with the top of Atlanta’s lineup approaching.
“We had our best guy out there,” Mattingly said. “You live with this one.”
Duran also indicated that he had been prepared to return for another inning after completing a perfect seventh. The closer made only one multi-inning appearance during the regular season, making the three-inning possibility an especially demanding assignment in a high-pressure playoff game.
The decision reflected Philadelphia’s concerns about its bullpen. Phillies relievers posted a 5.79 ERA in September, the worst mark in the major leagues. With the team’s relief corps struggling late in the season, Mattingly trusted Duran to handle the most difficult portion of the game.
- Austin Riley hit the go-ahead three-run homer in the eighth inning.
- Atlanta defeated Philadelphia 5-3 in Game 1.
- Jhoan Duran entered in the seventh and threw two innings.
- Duran allowed three runs and 27 pitches in the loss.
- The Phillies must win Wednesday to extend the series.
Phillies Face Critical Must-Win Game 2
Philadelphia will turn to left-hander Cristopher Sanchez for Game 2. The Phillies reached the postseason after being pushed to the final game of the regular season to secure a wild-card position, and they now face another elimination-style test.
Sanchez is expected to provide stability after a difficult opening game. Mattingly expressed confidence in the left-hander, emphasizing that momentum in October often begins with the starting pitcher.
“Always feel good with Cristopher out there,” Mattingly said. “The playoffs are momentum-based, it seems like, and really momentum starts with your starting pitcher.”
The Phillies’ immediate challenge is not only winning Wednesday but also managing their pitching resources. Duran’s availability remains uncertain after his 27-pitch outing. Mattingly said the club would evaluate the reliever before deciding whether he could contribute in the next game.
Philadelphia could use Jonathan Bowlan, Andrew Painter or a combination of relievers if the game reaches the late innings. Painter started 23 of his 25 games this season, but Mattingly identified him as a possible ninth-inning option depending on how the matchup develops.
What the Braves’ Victory Means
For Atlanta, the win provided an immediate postseason boost after Riley shook off a disappointing regular season with one of the biggest hits of the opening round. The Braves now need one more victory to eliminate Philadelphia and advance.
The club also gained confidence from its ability to respond after falling behind late. Riley’s home run changed the tone of the contest and gave Atlanta’s pitching staff a lead to protect in the ninth inning.
For the Phillies, the loss magnified the pressure surrounding every bullpen decision. The team still has a path forward, but Sanchez and the offense must deliver in Game 2. If Philadelphia wins, the series will move to a decisive third game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Braves game today result?
The Atlanta Braves defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series.
Who hit the go-ahead home run?
Austin Riley hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning to give Atlanta the lead.
Why did Jhoan Duran enter so early?
Don Mattingly used Duran in the seventh inning because he wanted his best reliever handling a crucial stretch against Atlanta’s lineup.
Who will start Game 2 for Philadelphia?
Left-hander Cristopher Sanchez is scheduled to start the Phillies’ must-win Game 2.
Can Jhoan Duran pitch in Game 2?
Duran’s availability is uncertain after he threw 27 pitches and allowed three runs over two innings.
