ATLANTA (AP) — Trea Turner showcased his power with two two-run home runs off Max Fried, while Aaron Nola earned his 100th career victory as the Philadelphia Phillies triumphed over the Atlanta Braves 8-6 on Friday night. The win further cemented the Phillies’ position atop the NL East, extending their lead over the second-place Braves to 10 games.

Turner’s Power Surge Leads the Way

Trea Turner, fresh off being voted one of Philadelphia’s three National League All-Star Game starters, delivered a standout performance at the plate. Turner’s first home run came in the fourth inning, contributing to a three-run surge for the Phillies. His second blast, a towering 459-foot shot to left field in the sixth inning, marked the longest home run of his career and his 16th career multi-homer game.

“I knew I hit it good,” Turner said. “I didn’t know I hit it that far.”

Despite his relatively slight build at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, Turner’s power continues to surprise even his manager.

“He’s not the biggest guy on the planet and I don’t know how he hits the ball so far,” said Phillies manager Rob Thomson.

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Nola’s Milestone Victory

Aaron Nola was in fine form, retiring the first 10 Braves batters he faced. Nola’s performance, which included eight strikeouts over six innings, was instrumental in securing his 100th career victory, bringing his career record to 100-75.

“It’s what makes a good team,” Nola said, emphasizing the depth and resilience of the Phillies roster despite the absence of key hitters like Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto due to injuries.

Braves’ Homers Not Enough

The Braves attempted a comeback with home runs from Ozzie Albies, Austin Riley, and Marcell Ozuna, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Phillies’ offensive onslaught. Fried, who took the loss for Atlanta, allowed five runs and a season-high 11 hits over six innings.

Game Highlights and Key Moments

• Aaron Nola retired the first 10 batters he faced before giving up a single to Ozzie Albies in the fourth inning. Austin Riley followed with a two-run homer.
• The Phillies responded in the fourth inning with Turner’s first two-run homer, part of a three-run inning.
• Turner’s second home run in the sixth inning extended the Phillies’ lead.
• Atlanta made three errors in the seventh inning, leading to two unearned runs for the Phillies.
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect ninth inning to earn his eighth save of the season.

Injury Updates and Roster Moves

• The Phillies’ depth was tested, but the team managed to produce 15 hits despite missing key players.
• Tyler Phillips was called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to bolster the bullpen, with Yunior Marte being optioned back to Lehigh Valley.
• Injuries to Kyle Schwarber (left groin strain) and Bryce Harper (left hamstring strain) are being closely monitored, with Schwarber planning to run the bases on Saturday.

On the Braves’ side, shortstop Orlando Arcia returned to the lineup after missing three games due to an abscessed tooth. However, the Braves were still without outfielder Ramón Laureano due to lower back soreness, leaving the team short-handed. Eli White was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett and went 0-for-4 in his debut, striking out to end the game.

Managerial Comments

Braves manager Brian Snitker expressed optimism about the recent signing of Eddie Rosario, who made a strong debut with Triple-A Gwinnett, tripling in his first game.

“We know what he’s capable of,” Snitker said, referring to Rosario, who was the MVP of the 2021 NLCS during his previous stint with Atlanta.

Looking Ahead

The Phillies will look to continue their dominance in the NL East and maintain their momentum as they navigate the challenges of an injury-plagued roster. Meanwhile, the Braves will aim to bounce back in the remaining games of the weekend series and close the gap in the standings.

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