Kevin Cooney, The Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — The Braves’ Kyle Wright became the first 20-game winner in major league baseball this year on Saturday.
The 26-year-old Alabama right-hander helped Atlanta win 6-3 over the Philadelphia Phillies.
This is a very important gain for the defending World Series champions, who had lost three games in a row.
The Braves were able to approach a game and a half from the top of their section, occupied by the New York Mets. These were roughed up 10-4 in Oakland.
Wright (20-5) allowed two runs and two hits in five and a third innings. He struck out six batters.
He is the first Braves pitcher to post 20 wins since 2003, when Russ Ortiz earned 21 wins.
Since the Braves arrived in Atlanta in 1966, Denny Neagle, John Smoltz, Greg Maddux, Phil Niekro and Tom Glavine have also reached this plateau.
William Contreras and Michael Harris each hit a home run and three hits for Atlanta.
Kenley Jansen collected a 37th save.
The Braves are looking for a fifth straight division title.
However, they will have their place in the playoffs again this year, even if they do not manage to repeat as section champions.
The Mets will play in Atlanta from September 30 to October 2.
Bryce Harper hit a two-run homer for the Phillies, who are trying to keep their gains.
They are part of the trio of clubs on their way to the post-season without a sectional title, along with another team from the East and San Diego. Milwaukee is not far behind.
