Braves, Cardinals playing long game of consistency to reach playoffs

(Photo credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports)

The St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves, each in second place in their divisions, are expected to be in the thick of the playoff race during the second half of the season. The clubs open a three-game series in Atlanta on Friday.

The Braves begin the second half 8 1/2 games behind Philadelphiain the National League East. St. Louis is 4 1/2 games behind Milwaukee in the N