Austin Riley's go-ahead homer lifts Braves in Game 1
Austin Riley delivered a go-ahead three-run homer that powered the Atlanta Braves to a 5-3 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series on Tuesday. With two outs and two runners on, the 29-year-old third baseman went opposite-field off Jhoan Duran, putting Atlanta one win from the NLDS.
Key Takeaways
- Austin Riley's three-run blast gave Atlanta a 5-3 Game 1 Wild Card win over Philadelphia.
- The opposite-field shot came with two outs and two runners on against Jhoan Duran.
- Atlanta is one win from the NLDS and a potential matchup with the Dodgers.
- Game 2 is Wednesday, with Cristopher Sanchez facing Tyler Mahle.
What did Austin Riley do in Game 1?
According to NBC Sports, Austin Riley stepped up with the game on the line and launched a go-ahead three-run home run.
The Braves third baseman connected with two runners on and two outs, sending an opposite-field drive off Phillies reliever Jhoan Duran. That swing flipped the Wild Card opener and sealed Atlanta's 5-3 victory.
For fans following celebrity breaking news, the moment instantly became the night's biggest sports headline.
Why does this homer matter for the Braves?
The win puts Atlanta one game from advancing to the NLDS against the Dodgers. Early series momentum matters, and Riley's clutch swing gave Atlanta a commanding Game 1 start.
NBC Sports noted Riley struggled badly in the regular season and has not been an elite hitter for the past few years. Still, October can rewrite a narrative in one at-bat—and he just delivered that kind of moment.
His wife, Anna, recently shared a heartfelt Instagram post praising his work on and off the field after he was named Atlanta's nominee for the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award, adding personal context to a star night on the diamond.
How had Austin Riley's regular season gone?
Riley finished 2026 batting .219 with 124 hits, 19 home runs, 72 RBIs, 64 runs, and nine stolen bases over 159 games. The two-time All-Star is in his eighth MLB season, all with Atlanta.
The Braves wrapped the regular season at 94-68 and won the NL East after missing the 2025 playoffs. Opening the Wild Card Series at Truist Park against Bryce Harper's Phillies, they needed a spark—and Riley provided it in Game 1.
What's next for Atlanta and Philadelphia?
The clubs meet again Wednesday. Cristopher Sanchez is slated to face Tyler Mahle as Philadelphia tries to even the series and Atlanta looks to punch its ticket to the next round.
One more win and the Braves move on. One more Riley-sized swing would make that path even clearer.