Braves Nation: A check on the magic numbers

Atlanta Braves' Ronald Acuna Jr., left, is congratulated by third base coach Ron Washington after hitting a grand slam during the second inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Credit: AP

Credit: AP

Atlanta Braves' Ronald Acuna Jr., left, is congratulated by third base coach Ron Washington after hitting a grand slam during the second inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

We have reached September. We figured it’s not too early to check in on the Braves’ magic numbers – especially because a trip to the playoffs and winning a sixth consecutive National League East title are almost certainties.

Let’s look at the numbers (not adjusted for tie-breakers).

The Braves (88-45) still have the best record in baseball after Thursday’s 8-7 victory over the Dodgers. The Dodgers (83-50) are tied for the second-best record with the Orioles. The Braves have 29 games remaining in the regular season.

The Braves’ magic number to clinch a wild-card spot is 10 games. The Diamondbacks (69-65) currently are one game out of the final of the three spots. According to several predictions, the Braves’ chance of clinching a spot is greater than 99%.

The Braves’ magic number to clinch the NL East is 16 games. The Phillies (74-59) are 14.5 games behind the Braves in the division. According to several predictions, the Braves’ chance of winning the division is greater than 99%.

The Braves’ magic number to clinch the best record and secure home-field advantage throughout the NL playoffs is 25 games. According to several predictions, the Braves’ chance of securing the best record is 90%.