Braves and Phillies begin four-game series with NL East lead at stake

The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies open a pivotal four-game series tonight at Citizens Bank Park. Atlanta enters the matchup with an 83-57 record, holding a four-game lead over the second-place Phillies in the National League East. Philadelphia enters the series following a stretch of 15 wins in their last 18 games. The opener features a pitching matchup between Chris Sale for the Braves and Christopher Sanchez for the Phillies. A sweep by Philadelphia would tie the division standings heading into the final portion of the season. Beyond the division race, the Phillies hold a 5.5-game cushion for a National League Wild Card spot as they look to strengthen their postseason position.

• 3:15 PMYahoo Sports — NL East division will be decided this weekend