Braves blast Phils on way to playoffs

After essentially having their way with the Phillies during the season's first five months, the Braves encountered some struggles this month. But with 10 games remaining this season, they are hoping that they have finally delivered a decisive blow to their division rival's postseason hopes.

Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward led the barrage that forced Roy Halladay to make one of the earliest exits of his career and watch helplessly as the Braves completed their 8-2 win over the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday afternoon.

This victory combined with the Brewers' loss to the Nationals allowed the Braves to reduce their magic number to clinch a playoff berth to three. They remain positioned at the top of the National League Wild Card standings with a six-game lead over the second-place Cardinals.

Braves take big step toward playoffs, hurt Phils