Interim manager Don Mattingly turned to All-Star closer Jhoan Duran in the seventh inning of the Philadelphia Phillies' opening National League Wild Card Series game against the Atlanta Braves. The strategy backfired when Duran gave up a three-run homer to Austin Riley in the eighth inning, resulting in a 5-3 loss. Duran had a perfect seventh, but struggled in the eighth, allowing a two-out single to Michael Harris II, hitting Ozzie Albies, and then surrendering Riley's go-ahead shot.

Mattingly defended the decision, stating it was about the spot in the game rather than matchups. The Phillies' bullpen had a 5.79 ERA in September, worst in the majors. Mattingly noted that if Duran had protected the lead, they might have used a combination of relievers like Jonathan Bowlan in the ninth.

The Phillies now turn to left-hander Cristopher Sanchez for Game 2, with Mattingly expressing confidence in his ability to provide a strong start. Duran's availability for Wednesday is uncertain after throwing 27 pitches and allowing three runs in two innings.