Game 1 results in a victory for the composed Braves over the aggressive Phils thanks to Bryce

 Nobody was able to affect Spencer Strider as effectively as Bryce Harper did on Saturday night at Trueist Park.

In the sixth inning of Game 1 of the best-of-five National League Division Series, Harper accomplished something noteworthy. He smashed a single home run to right field with just the first pitch he saw, sending the ball racing off his bat at an astounding 115.3 mph. To put it in context, no one had ever hit a ball against Strider faster than 111.8 mph.

It was Harper's game-changing hit, which ultimately proved to be the deciding factor, that allowed the Phillies to win 3-0.But the story went beyond only his dramatic eruption. The Phillies' manager, Rob Thomson, came up with a carefully thought-out strategy. He made the decision to be really aggressive with his use of the bullpen, and it paid off nicely.

The Braves were hailed as one of the best offensive teams in baseball history before to the playoffs. But thanks to the Phillies' bullpen's efficient performance, they were shut out for just the third time this year.

Ranger Suarez, a left-handed pitcher for the Phillies, had retired 10 of the first 11 batters before getting into a little trouble in the fourth inning with two bases on and two outs. At that point, Thomson bravely decided to insert right-hander Jeff Hoffman from the bullpen. What a bullpen, too! With an average fastball velocity of 96.3 mph, Philadelphia's relievers led the league.

With the bases loaded, Hoffman was in a difficult situation, but he mustered the grit to strike out Michael Harris swinging to end the inning. The greatest way to put it was by Bryce Harper, who said, "We've got the best relief corps in the game."

A great double play set up by Trea Turner helped the Phillies' bullpen, which included Seranthony Domnguez, José Alvarado, Orion Kerkering, Matt Strahm, and Craig Kimbrel, hold the Braves at bay for the remainder of the game.

The Phillies have the added benefit of a completely rested, high-leverage relief crew going into Game 2 with ace Jack Wheeler on the mound because of Sunday's off day. The difficulty they face against the Braves was acknowledged by Bryce Harper, who said, "They have a really talented starting pitcher there, too, in Max Fried. We honor that. There is a fantastic team.We do, however, have certain benefits.