A former player for the Braves criticized the team for being “shell-shocked” by the Phillies in the National League Division Series (NLDS), highlighting the Braves’ surprise losses to the Phillies in both the 2022 and 2023 playoffs. Despite the Braves entering the series as NL East champions, they were defeated by the Phillies, who were Wild Card Series winners, on both occasions. Observers noted that the Braves appeared flustered by their underdog opponents.
The criticism intensified after a dramatic incident involving Bryce Harper and Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia during Game 2, where Arcia mocked Harper, leading to a retaliatory response from Harper in Game 3. The former Braves player, Jeff Francoeur, suggested that Arcia could have responded differently to Harper’s actions.
Francoeur also pointed to Braves manager Brian Snitker’s indecision as a possible factor contributing to the team’s loss in the decisive playoff game and subsequent loss of momentum in the series. He emphasized the importance of decisiveness and adaptability in postseason play.
The ongoing rivalry between the Braves and Phillies, intensified by their recent playoff encounters, is expected to continue in the 2024 postseason. FanGraphs’ playoff odds predict the Braves to win the NL East once again, with a high likelihood of making the playoffs, while the Phillies are projected to secure a Wild Card spot. This sets the stage for a potential rematch between the two teams in the NLDS, promising more intense baseball action.
The Braves will begin their season against the Phillies in Philadelphia on March 28, 2024. Jeff Francoeur, speaking on “Foul Territory,” highlighted the difference in energy between the two teams during the NLDS, noting the Phillies’ aggressive and spirited play contrasted with the Braves’ apparent hesitancy.
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