The Mental Dynamics of a Playoff Rematch and Its Psychological Intricacies

This playoff series is a highly anticipated rematch between the Phillies and the Braves, reigniting the excitement of last year's October encounter.

We will not know if the Phillies beating the Braves last year is in the Braves' heads, or not, until a few innings into the game. The Phillies have the edge in pitching, a critical factor in this playoff matchup. If the Braves are behind, and the Phillies get a pretty big lead, they could fold. "Oh, not again!" However, their disadvantage lies in lacking a reliable closer, unlike the Braves.

On the other hand, if the Braves get a big lead, they can erase last year and not think about it like they have for the last week. If the Braves fall behind and the Phillies take a substantial lead, the pressure mounts, bringing last year's defeat back to the surface. This playoff match is an opportunity to add more to the narrative of this rivalry, another defining moment for both teams awaits.