Phillies, Braves Split Doubleheader Amid Controversy

The Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves split a doubleheader, with the Phillies winning the opener 5-4, highlighted by backup catcher Rafael Marchan's two-run homer and late-game plays. The Braves took the nightcap 9-3, ending Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler's 26-inning scoreless streak. Chris Sale made history in Game 2 by becoming the fastest pitcher to reach 2,500 strikeouts, striking out eight Phillies batters. The first game ended controversially due to a questionable strike three call against Atlanta's Eli White, reigniting debate over MLB umpiring and calls for automated ball-strike systems. Atlanta's offense struggled in the first game, continuing a trend of missed opportunities and contributing to their 9.5-game deficit in the NL East. Both teams are facing inconsistencies as they enter a busy weekend series.