Braves Aim for Sweep as Dodgers Seek Redemption in Crucial Matchup

The Atlanta Braves are poised to complete a series sweep over the Los Angeles Dodgers as the two National League powerhouses clash at Truist Park on Sunday evening. The Braves have already secured victories in the first two games of the series, showcasing their offensive prowess and shutting down the Dodgers' star player, Shohei Ohtani.

A Pivotal Showdown with Playoff Implications

Braves Riding High, Dodgers Seeking Redemption

The Braves have been dominant in this series, winning the first two games by scores of 6-2 and 10-1. Their pitching staff has been particularly impressive, limiting the Dodgers' offense and keeping Ohtani in check. With the win on Saturday, the Braves have moved to a season-high 14 games over .500 and have pulled even with the Mets for the final NL wild-card spot. "These last couple of nights, this is what we've expected from ourselves," pitcher Chris Sale told The Associated Press. "We knew what this series means and it's been a good couple of games for us."

Pitching Matchup: Buehler vs. Morton

The Dodgers will send Walker Buehler (1-5, 5.95 ERA, 1.64 WHIP, 49 strikeouts) to the mound, while the Braves will counter with Charlie Morton (8-8, 4.11 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 155 strikeouts). Buehler has struggled this season, and the Braves will be looking to capitalize on his inconsistency. Morton, on the other hand, has been a reliable presence in the Braves' rotation and will be tasked with maintaining his team's momentum.

Offensive Firepower on Display

The Braves' offense has been firing on all cylinders, with several players contributing to their success. Matt Olson has been a standout, hitting a bases-loaded double and driving in multiple runs in Saturday's game. Whit Merrifield and Michael Harris II also contributed RBIs, showcasing the depth and versatility of the Braves' lineup. "When we hit like that, we're capable of a lot," Braves manager Brian Snitker told The Associated Press. "You just kind of get cautiously optimistic that we're going to get on a run because we're getting a lot from everybody again, which is really good."

Ohtani's Struggles and the Dodgers' Woes

Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers' two-way superstar, has stalled in his quest to become the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season. He has gone 0 for 6 in his last two games since hitting his NL-best 47th home run on Wednesday against the Chicago Cubs. The Dodgers, as a team, have also struggled of late, going 4-6 in their last 10 games and now sitting two games behind the Phillies for the best record in the National League.

Playoff Implications and the Season Series

Sunday's game holds significant playoff implications, as the Braves look to solidify their position in the NL wild-card race, while the Dodgers aim to maintain their lead in the NL West. The Dodgers currently hold a 3-2 advantage in the season series, and this game will be the sixth time these teams have met this year. The Braves will be looking to even the score and potentially gain an edge in the postseason race.