The Braves are surging. While the Phils were off Thursday, Atlanta beat Colorado 6-3 to complete their first four-game sweep of the Rockies in 18 years. Rookie Freddie Freeman hit a three-run homer Thursday, his fourth dinger of the series to go with seven RBIs. And Atlanta’s Craig Kimbrel got his 27th save Thursday, the most saves by a rookie before the All-Star break since saves became official in 1969. The Braves have won nine of 10 and 14 of 17. They are 23-10 since June 1, the best mark in the majors in that span, to put some pressure on the Phils, who have led the NL East for all but one day this season.

The Phillies, who have the best record in the majors, could be without two key players tonight and for this series. Third baseman Placido Polanco said he has been bothered for about a month by his back and saw a specialist on Thursday. He has hit just .216 since April. And outfielder Shane Victorino, who was got the final spot on the NL All-Star team Thursday through the fan vote, suffered a Grade 1 sprain of his right thumb Sunday in Toronto and hasn’t played since. He might have to go on the DL, which obviously leaves his participation in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Phoenix in jeopardy. Victorino is hitting .303 with 14 doubles, nine triples, nine home runs, 34 RBIs, 53 runs scored and 13 stolen bases.

The Phillies are big favorites tonight because they are starting Roy Halladay, who might be the  NL starting pitcher in the All-Star Game. The right-hander is 11-3 with a 2.44 ERA, leading the league with six complete games and innings pitched. The Braves go with young Brandon Beachy (3-1, 3.23). The Phillies have owned him, handing Beachy all three of his career losses and have scored 10 runs off him in 18 innings.

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