Braves and Phillies begin four-game series in Philadelphia

The Atlanta Braves begin a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night at Citizens Bank Park. Atlanta enters the matchup holding a four-game lead over the Phillies in the NL East standings. The opening contest features a pitching duel between Braves left-hander Chris Sale and Phillies starter Cristopher Sánchez. Sale enters the game with a 13-9 record and a 2.06 ERA, while Sánchez holds a 16-4 record and a 2.52 ERA. The two teams are scheduled to play seven times over the next 10 days, with the second half of that stretch taking place in Atlanta. Officials are monitoring weather conditions, as there is a 50% chance of rain in the Philadelphia area during the afternoon hours.

• 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Chris Sale faces Cristopher Sánchez as critical Braves-Phillies series begins