What is the Atlanta Braves magic number to clinch the NL East?

The Atlanta Braves are in a tough competition with the Philadelphia Phillies over control of the NL East. But what’s their magic number? 

The Atlanta Braves have a 3.5-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East.

Atlanta cannot clinch their division until its magic number is reached. The Braves only competition in the NL East are the Phillies as the Mets are eliminated

Braves magic number: 3

The Braves can clinch the NL East if they reach their magic number of three. Atlanta will continue its series against the San Diego Padres this weekend before playing against division rivals Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets. The series against Philadelphia will be exceptionally crucial.

FanSided’s own Aryanna Prasad sums up the magic number formula quite well:

"“The magic number is calculated by taking an entire season of games, then adding one for a total of 163. Then, the wins of the Cardinals are subtracted, as are the losses of the secondary team.  The formula looks like this:  163 – (Division leader wins + Division runner-up losses)”"

As things currently stand, the Braves magic number is three. Atlanta is neck and neck with Philadelphia, so things will come right down to the end.