some upgrades made by the team<\/a> helped improve the depth of the organization and have filled some needs. Now, with things firing on all cylinders, Philadelphia\u2019s goals might once again be changing.\u00a0<\/p>\nAtlanta Braves Within Reach Again![\"Atlanta](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/01m0mztqby9ee5dw8jvc.jpg\" "\\"Atlanta")
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Aug 21, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies (1) completes a double play after forcing out Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Garrett Mitchell (5) in the eighth inning at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect<\/p>\n
Following their bad start to the second half, it appeared like the Braves were going to be running away with the NL East. Atlanta has been a solid team all season, and has controlled the division right from the start.\u00a0<\/p>\n
However, this isn\u2019t the first time that the Phillies have gotten within striking distance for first place in the division, and this time they will be hoping it can be different.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Entering the games on Saturday, Atlanta\u2019s lead in the division has been cut to just four games. The Braves are in the middle of a brutal stretch on their schedule, facing the Milwaukee Brewers this week and then the Los Angeles Dodgers to start next week.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Fortunately, the series against the Dodgers will be at home, but that is a battle between two heavyweights in the NL. The Phillies won\u2019t be playing that level of competition, but they will be getting set for a long West Coast trip.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Philadelphia will be on the road for nine games following their series against the Cardinals. The Phillies will face the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, and the Arizona Diamondbacks.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The first two series against the American League opponents will be favorable matchups for Philadelphia, but the Diamondbacks could present a challenge. Overall, with September quickly approaching, the Phillies have to be pleased with how close they have been able to get to the Braves in the division.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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