Backup catcher Rafael Marchán hit a two-run homer, drove in the go-ahead run when he was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded in the eighth inning and caught two runners stealing, helping the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 5-4 in in a doubleheader opener.

The first leg of Thursday’s doubleheader between the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves ended on a questionable call from home plate umpire Bruce Dreckman.

Rafael Marchan enjoyed a big day offensively and defensively as the Philadelphia Phillies nipped the visiting Atlanta Braves 5-4 on Thursday in the first game of a day-night doubleheader.

Chris Sale became the fastest pitcher to reach 2,500 strikeouts, pitched six scoreless innings and the Atlanta Braves beat the Philadelphia Phillies 9-3 on Thursday night to split a doubleheader.

Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson told reporters that his team didn't retaliate against the Atlanta Braves after Spencer Strider hit Bryce Harper with a pitch Tuesday because he didn't believe it was intentional.

Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II robbed Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Max Kepler of a three-run home run with an incredible catch.

The second game of a three-game series between the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves was postponed because of rain and was rescheduled for Thursday as part of a day-night doubleheader.

The Philadelphia Phillies won two of three against the Atlanta Braves to strengthen their grip on the NL East. After a turbulent few weeks to open the season, Philly has settled into a nice groove. Their division rivals, meanwhile, continue to stall. The Phillies now lead the Mets by 2.0 games and the Braves by 9.5 games.