The Atlanta Braves fanbase has had to endure no shortage of taunting from the hated Philadelphia Phillies and their fanbase over the last four years. Philadelphia would author Atlanta's postseason exit in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, giving the franchise bragging rights despite the Braves having won a World Series far more recently. This advantage was taken away on Thursday night as Chris Sale closed the door on a 6-2 Braves win, and putting away the hated rival.
Despite starting the first game of the series, Sale would take the mound in the 8th and get the final four outs of the game. Allowing only one hit and recorded three strikeouts out of the four outs the veteran southpaw recorded. It was a fitting ending to a series that Sale helped set the tone for and a reminder of the ultimate gamer that the aging left-hander has proven to be.
Even on the one ball that was put into play for an out was a pop up that Austin Riley caught ahead of third base. It was a low pop up and had Chris Sale flying off the mound making sure that he wasn't needed to make the play to help end Philadelphia's short postseason run.
It was a welcome ending for the Phillies and took away any power the fanbase or organization has over the Braves. Not only do the Braves hold the more recent World Series title, but Atlanta now also has the most recent division title and playoff series win over the hated rival.
Chris Sale Offer Braves Fitting Ending to Philadelphia's Frustrating Bragging Rights
Sale simply has been an undeniable bargain and one of the biggest reasons that this Atlanta season has felt so entirely different. Having the veteran healthy and rostered for a potential deep postseason run offers a certain edge and intensity that recent Atlanta rosters were seemingly lacking. This was on full display on Thursday night and should have fans undeniably excited for the season ahead.
Perhaps the only downside to this appearance is the fact that it will push Sale's appearance against the Dodgers back a bit further. The first game is clearly off the table, with it being a clear question mark how quickly Sale will be pushed to return, as Atlanta has been careful with the starter's season, opting often for extra rest
No matter how it plays out, there is no denying that it was Sale who set the tone for the series and ended it in fitting fashion. Handing Philadelphia a deliciously frustrating ending and leaving the Braves all of the bragging rights heading into next season.
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