Over six strong innings, he allowed just two hits, issued three walks, and struck out six.
The Braves' offense erupted in the second inning, with Adam Duvall, Jarred Kelenic, and Matt Olson each homering off Phillies rookie Michael Mercado. Eli White added a solo homer in the sixth, capping the offensive surge.
Mercado (1-1), in only his second career start, couldn't escape the second inning. He was tagged for five runs on five hits and three walks in just 1 2/3 innings.
Despite the loss, there was a bright spot for the Phillies. Lumberton native and Bishop Eustace Prep alum Tyler Phillips made his MLB debut in relief and delivered an impressive performance. After two days of waiting in the bullpen, Phillips finally received his call in the fifth inning and pitched like he belonged. He started his outing by striking out the side — Matt Olson, Marcell Ozuna, and Travis d’Arnaud — on just 12 pitches, mowing down the heart of the Braves’ lineup with authority.
Phillips struck out the first four Braves he faced and allowed just one run on three hits over four innings.
With this win, the Braves have taken two of three in their early-season clashes with their NL East rivals.
The Phillies, who have eliminated the Braves in the last two postseasons, will look to bounce back as they head home before the All-Star break.
Up next, the Phillies will send right-hander Zack Wheeler (9-4, 2.74 ERA) to the mound on Tuesday to face Dodgers right-hander Bobby Miller (1-1, 6.12 ERA) in the opener of a three-game series between division leaders in Philadelphia.
