Atlanta Braves become first team to qualify for MLB playoffs

Atlanta, Georgia - Ronald Acuña and Matt Olson smacked two-run singles in the seventh inning Sunday, lifting the Atlanta Braves over visiting Pittsburgh 5-2 to clinch a Major League Baseball playoff berth.

Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. runs bases during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Truist Park.
Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. runs bases during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Truist Park.  © USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

The Braves, seeking their second World Series title in three seasons, improved to an MLB-best 93-49 and became the first team to secure a post-season spot.

"Obviously, we're very grateful to have the opportunity to continue playing in the post-season," Venezuelan outfielder Acuña said through a translator. "We want to win some games and hopefully win the World Series."

The Braves need a combination of six wins or Philadelphia losses to clinch a sixth consecutive National League East division title.

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Atlanta will open a four-game series at Philadelphia on Monday.

While a sixth consecutive playoff appearance since Acuña's arrival is secured, the Braves have exited in their first playoff series in three of the past five seasons.

Acuña, a prime candidate for NL Most Valuable Player, received chants of "M-V-P" after his two-out single plated the runs that put Atlanta ahead to stay after trailing the Pirates 2-1.

Will the Atlanta Braves secure a first-round bye?

The Braves would earn a first-round bye if they remain the NL division champion with the best record.

They have a three-game edge on American League leader Baltimore for the best record in MLB and would have a home-field edge through the playoffs and World Series if they maintain that edge.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are six games back for the top NL record.

Cover photo: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

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