What happened: The Cardinals and Braves meet in St. Louis with the Cardinals holding a 3-1 edge in the series. Atlanta enters on a two-game winning streak, while St. Louis is coming off a one-game skid.
Why it matters: Atlanta sits at 54-38 and has outscored opponents by a full run per game this season, while St. Louis is 48-44 and allowing nearly as many runs as it scores. A series result here shapes momentum for both clubs as they navigate the middle of the schedule.
By the numbers: Braves: 54-38, last five WWLLL, scoring 4.9 runs per game while allowing 3.9. Cardinals: 48-44, last five LWLLL, scoring 4.6 while allowing 4.5. The listed 5.
What to watch: First pitch and the starting pitching matchup will determine how St. Louis approaches defending its series lead.