Austin Riley Braves stun Phillies NLDS

Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley hits a go-ahead two-run homer in the eighth inning to help the Braves rally from a four-run deficit to defeat the Philadelphia Phillies 5-4 in the National League Division Series.

The Atlanta Braves found themselves in a precarious situation, just four outs away from falling behind 2-0 in the National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. However, it was Austin Riley who stepped up to the plate and became the hero of the game.

As the Braves' third baseman, Riley delivered a powerful go-ahead, two-run homer in the eighth inning. Not only did he contribute offensively, but he also made a crucial defensive play in the ninth inning. This impressive performance helped the Braves rally from a four-run deficit and secure a 5-4 victory over the Phillies.

With this comeback win, the Braves were able to even the best-of-five NLDS at one game apiece. The series will now move to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Wednesday.

Throughout most of the game, the Braves' offense struggled against the dominant pitching of Phillies ace Zack Wheeler. However, Riley's home run off Jeff Hoffman in the eighth inning completely shifted the momentum and changed the course of the series.

When asked about his game-changing home run, Riley humbly stated, "I was just trying to put a barrel on the ball. That's all it was. It's definitely up there with my top ones... Obviously still a lot of work to do. Just going to enjoy this one tonight."

But Riley's contributions didn't end there. In the ninth inning, with the Phillies threatening to tie or regain the lead, Bryce Harper was on first base with one out. Nick Castellanos hit a deep fly ball to right center field, which Braves center fielder Michael Harris II caught while colliding with the fence. Harper, who had advanced past second base, was caught off guard and failed to return to the base in time. Riley, who was backing up the play, threw to first base to retire Harper and end the game.

The thrilling ending to the game left the Braves and their fans ecstatic. Travis d'Arnaud, who also hit a two-run homer earlier in the game, expressed his excitement, saying, "Every playoff win is exciting... I think the way it ended was one of the most exciting endings to games I've ever seen as far as a defensive standpoint."

Unfortunately, the Phillies had to face the disappointment of their baserunning mistake. Manager Rob Thomson commented on Harper's gaffe, stating, "Usually you don't pass the base. You stay in front of it, make sure it's not caught... But he thought the ball was clearly over (Harris') head, didn't think he was going to catch it. And Harris made a heck of a play."

In the seventh inning, d'Arnaud hit a home run off Wheeler, who had been dominant throughout the game. This home run brought the Braves within one run, making the comeback possible. Wheeler struck out 10 batters and allowed three runs (two earned) and three hits over 6 1/3 innings.

The Phillies had their own offensive highlights, with J.T. Realmuto hitting a two-run homer and Alec Bohm and Bryson Stott contributing with an RBI single and sacrifice fly, respectively. However, they struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, leaving 11 runners on base.

The game also marked the return of Braves left-hander Max Fried, who had been sidelined since September 21 due to a blister on his left index finger. Fried pitched four innings, allowing three runs and six hits while walking four and striking out three.

In the end, it was A.J. Minter who pitched a perfect eighth inning and Raisel Iglesias who recorded the save for the Braves, securing their thrilling comeback victory.

The Atlanta Braves' remarkable performance in Game 2 of the NLDS showcased their resilience and determination. With Austin Riley leading the way, they were able to overcome a four-run deficit and even the series against the Philadelphia Phillies. As the series moves to Philadelphia for Game 3, both teams will undoubtedly bring their A-game in hopes of securing a crucial win.