Google News
Monday Night Baseball delivered a spellbinding spectacle as the Atlanta Braves staged an impressive rally to draw level in the NLDS series against the Philadelphia Phillies. While the game overflowed with drama, all eyes were on Bryce Harper's critical baserunning error that may have determined the game's outcome.
The Phillies held command with a formidable 4-0 lead entering the sixth inning. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in favor of the Braves, who systematically chipped away at their deficit, racking up runs in the succeeding innings to eventually clinch the lead.
The high-voltage climax approached during the ninth inning, following Harper’s walk courtesy of AJ Minter. With JT Realmuto bowing out after a flyout against the Braves' closer, Raisel Iglesias, and Nick Castellanos stepping up to bat, the atmosphere was thick with tension.
Castellanos unleashed a fierce hit towards right center field, seemingly soaring over Michael Harris II's reach.
Harper's Misstep Seals Game Outcome
In that split-second, Harper was already in motion, anticipating the ball would bypass Harris.
To his astonishment, Harris pulled off a spectacular catch. By then, Harper had overshot second base and faced a sprint back to first. Austin Riley seized the moment, denying Harper's desperate dash to first base, culminating in the game-sealing play.
Harper’s remorse was palpable post-game. "I probably shouldn’t have gone over second base," he lamented. "But I made a decision and I’ll live with that." He further commented, "Michael made a tremendous play.
Being doubled up was a tough pill to swallow, especially with the stakes so high." [via MLB.com] One could speculate, had Harris missed that catch, Harper was on track for a home run, possibly drawing the game. Alas, destiny favored the Braves, sealing a nail-biting 5-4 victory at SunTrust Park.
As the saga continues, the Phillies and Braves brace for NLDS Game 3. The Braves now head to Citizens Bank Park, with aspirations of surging ahead in the series. The action unfolds this Wednesday, Oct. 11 at 5:07 pm ET, broadcasted live on TBS.
While the Braves place their trust in right-hander AJ Smith-Shawer, the Phillies are set to deploy their ace, Aaron Nola, who has a marked advantage over his younger counterpart.