They were down to their last strike only to tie it in the 9th inning. They trailed 4-3 and then 7-4 in extra innings, only to tie – then win it.

For the Atlanta Braves, their 8-7 victory Saturday night was one of their wildest games in recent seasons. And it came in front of the biggest crowd so far at Truist Park since the team increased capacity to 100%.

Pablo Sandoval got the game to extras with yet another pinch-hit homer. His 9th inning blast came with 2 outs.

Falling behind 4-3 in the 11th, the Braves tied it 4-4 in their half of the inning. A deflating top of the 12th followed where the Phillies scored 3 runs. That only set the stage for the Braves last of the 12th dramatics.

After the Braves loaded the bases, catcher William Contreras ripped a 3-run double for the tie.  It would be the single to right field from Ehire Adrianza that won it for Atlanta.

The win was the topper for the relief the Braves felt after news that star outfielder Ronald Acuna was not seriously hurt by a hit by 98-mph pitch in the 7th inning. X-rays were negative, and Acuna is listed as day-to-day with a left pinky finger contusion.

The Braves (16-17) try to win the series against the Phillies (18-16) Sunday night.

Cox Media Group