Braves Clinch Wild Card Playoff Berth

Braves AJC Celebration Slideshow

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

McCann's 10th-inning sac fly keeps Braves hot

Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez has not completely altered his approach to managing a game. But the manner in which he has utilized closer Craig Kimbrel over the past few days proves he is willing to try some unconventional approaches in an attempt to make sure this season ends much more pleasant than the last.

Gonzalez found himself breathing a sigh of relief on Sunday afternoon after Brian McCann's sacrifice fly provided the Braves a lead that Peter Moylan would not relinquish in a 3-2, 10-inning win over the Mets.

McCann's 10th-inning sac fly keeps Braves hot