Braves Defeat Phillies 9-3 as Sale Hits 2,500 Strikeouts Milestone

Chris Sale became the fastest pitcher to reach 2,500 strikeouts in a game where the Atlanta Braves defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 9-3 to split a doubleheader. Zack Wheeler, the Phillies' ace, took the loss in the second game, allowing six runs over 5 1/3 innings, marking one of his rare subpar outings this season, particularly against the Braves. Despite this, Wheeler has been dominant overall in 2025, boasting a 6-2 record with a 2.42 ERA and an impressive strikeout rate, making him one of the top pitchers currently in the MLB. Wheeler has had success against Atlanta in the past, though his most recent start against them resulted in a season-high five runs allowed, a performance he was visibly unhappy with. The Phillies will face Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver in the upcoming matchup, who has struggled recently but had previously posted strong numbers. Meanwhile, the Phillies may have to deal with the potential absence of Bryce Harper, who was hit by a pitch and is dealing with an elbow contusion.