Game 57 - Phils Drop Lifeless Game to Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers	6
Philadelphia Phillies	2

2025 Choice Lehigh Valley
IronPigs #19

Friday Night, May 30th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
36-21, 1st Place, 1 game ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  In a game that seemed lopsided from the start, the Brewers took a quick lead and never looked back in this 6-2 defeat.

What It Means:  Bryce Harper missed his third straight game with a bruised elbow, and I'm starting to think an injured list stint could be coming soon.  If nothing else, maybe the Phillies could call up Otto Kemp to inject some more life into the line-up.

What Happened:  Taijuan Walker appeared to be rusty, and he allowed two first inning runs before settling in for the next three innings.  In the fifth, Walker walked Brice Turang and allowed a double to Jackson Chourio before being relieved by Tanner Banks.  Christian Yelich hit a three-run home run on the first pitch thrown by Banks, giving the Brewers a 5-1 lead.  Kyle Schwarber had an RBI double in the fourth and Nick Castellanos hit a solo home run in the seventh.

Featured Card:  Max Lazar threw 2 1/3 scoreless innings in one of the few Phillies pitching bright spots in this game.  Collectors are still waiting for Lazar's first Phillies card, and here's his card from the 2025 IronPigs team set.

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Milwaukee Brewers at Philadelphia Phillies - Hoskins Returns to Philly (Again)

2005 Topps #164

2025 Chachi 2005 Topps Missing Links #12

Friday, May 30th - 6:45
Saturday, May 31st - 4:05
Sunday, June 1st - 1:35

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
Tomorrow is Photo Day, one of the more popular promotions when our kids were younger and excited to pose for pictures with the Phillies players, coaches and broadcasters.  On Sunday, all kids receive a Phillies t-shirt.

Milwaukee Brewers 29-28
3rd Place in the N.L. Central, 6 1/2 games behind the Cubs

Brewers Probables
DL Hall (1-0, 3.86)
Chad Patrick (2-4, 2.97)
Jose Quintana (4-1, 2.65)

Brewers Leaders
Average:  Sal Frelick - .294
Runs:  Bruce Turang - 36
Home Runs:  Christian Yelich - 10
RBIs:  Christian Yelich - 34
Stolen Bases:  Bruce Turang - 14

Wins:  Freddy Peralta - 5
ERA:  Freddy Peralta - 2.77

Strikeouts:  Freddy Peralta - 66
Saves:  Trevor Megill - 10

Philadelphia Phillies 36-20
1st Place in the N.L. East, 2 games ahead of the Mets

Phillies Probables
Taijuan Walker (2-3, 2.97)
Jesus Luzardo (5-0, 2.15)
Ranger Suarez (4-0, 2.97)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .302
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 43
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 19
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 41
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 14

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 6
ERA:  Jesus Luzardo - 2.15
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 94
Saves:  Jordan Romano - 8

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Game 56 - Wheeler Suffers Rare Off Day Against Braves

Atlanta Braves	9
Philadelphia Phillies	3

Game 2

2025 Choice Lehigh Valley
IronPigs #29

Thursday Night, May 29th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
36-20, 1st Place, 2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Zack Wheeler just didn't have it and Chris Sale made easy work of the Phillies line-up in this 9-3 defeat.

What It Means:  The Phillies have won nine of their last ten series, and Rhys Hoskins and the Brewers come to town next for a weekend set.

What Happened:  Wheeler gave up four runs in the fourth and he'd be charged with two more runs in the sixth after Carlos Hernandez allowed both his inherited runners to score.  The Braves would add three more runs against relievers Joe Ross and Brett de Geus.  The Phillies pushed across three runs in the late innings, but it wasn't nearly enough to overcome the early deficit.  Sale pitched six shutout innings and struck out eight in his outing.

Featured Card:  de Geus, on the roster as the 27th man for the double header, made his Phillies debut, walking three, allowing a hit and giving up a ninth inning run. The Phillies are the sixth team the pitcher has appeared for over parts of three big league seasons.  His longest stint came in 2021 when he relieved in 28 games for the Diamondbacks.  de Geus has a card in this year's IronPigs' team set.

Transaction:  Following the game, it was announced the Phillies had acquired Josh Walker (lhp) from the Toronto Blue Jays for cash considerations.  The Phillies had an open spot on their 40-man roster.

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Game 55 - Marchan Stars in Game One Win

Atlanta Braves	4
Philadelphia Phillies	5

Game 1

2021 Stadium Club #52

Thursday Afternoon, May 29th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
36-19

One Sentence Summary:  Rafael Marchan starred at and behind the plate as the Phillies held on (barely) to win this game, 5-4.

What It Means:  The rain in the area washed out Wednesday night, resulting in a day-night double header on Thursday.

What Happened:  Marchan hit his first home run of the year, a two-run shot in the second inning, giving the Phillies an early lead.  With the score tied 4-4, and the bases loaded in the bottom of the eighth, Marchan was hit with a pitch by Daysbel Hernandez to drive home the eventual winning run.  He also threw out two would-be basestealers on the day.  Not to be completely lost in Marchan's shadow, Nick Castellanos was 4 for 4.  Kyle Schwarber hit his 19th home run of the season, a solo shot, in the seventh.  Only Shohei Ohtani has more with 20.

The bullpen took over for Cristopher Sanchez after 5 2/3 innings.  Matt Strahm coughed up a two-run lead in the top of the eighth, and Jordan Romano loaded the bases in the top of the ninth before somehow avoiding disaster and recording his eighth save.

Featured Card:  Marchan hasn't appeared on a mainstream baseball card since 2022!  He received a bunch of rookie cards in 2021, including this card in the Stadium Club set.

Transaction:  Brett de Geus (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley as the 27th man for the double header.  de Geus was selected off waivers from the Marlins on April 1st.

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Game 54 - Suarez, 3 Relievers Combine for Shutout; Harper Beaned

Atlanta Braves	0
Philadelphia Phillies	2

2025 Topps Heritage #150

Tuesday Night, May 27th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
35-19, 1st Place, 2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Ranger Suarez pitched six shutout innings and the Phillies offense managed a pair of runs to win the series opener against the Braves, 2-0.

What It Means:  The win was great, but there was a scary moment in the bottom of the first when Spencer Strider nailed Bryce Harper on the elbow with a 95mph fastball.  Harper was clearly in pain and left the game, with Edmundo Sosa taking over as a pinch-runner.  X-rays following the game were negative and for now, Harper is day-to-day with a bruised elbow.

What Happened:  Max Kepler doubled home Alec Bohm in the second for the game's first (and winning) run.  J.T. Realmuto walked with the bases loaded in the eighth for an insurance run.  Suarez improved to 4-0, allowing four hits in his outing and striking out eight.  Orion Kerkering, Matt Strahm and Jordan Romano combined to complete the shutout.

Featured Card:  Get well soon, Bryce!

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Atlanta Braves at Philadelphia Phillies - Phils Home to Close Out May

2005 Topps #6

2005 Topps Retired Signature #53

Tuesday, May 27th - 6:45
Wednesday, May 28th - 6:45
Thursday, May 29th - 6:45

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
On Thursday night, all fans will receive a nice-looking Retro Phillies cap.

Atlanta Braves 25-27
3rd Place in the N.L. East, 8 1/2 games behind the Phillies

Braves Probables
Spencer Strider (0-2, 5.79)
AJ Smith-Shawver (3-2, 3.67)
Chris Sale (2-3, 3.36)

Braves Leaders
Average:  Marcell Ozuna - .278
Runs:  Matt Olson - 30
Home Runs:  Matt Olson - 12
RBIs:  Michael Harris - 31
Stolen Bases:  Michael Harris - 9

Wins:  Five tied with - 3
ERA:  Chris Sale - 3.36

Strikeouts:  Chris Sale - 78
Saves:  Raisel Iglesias - 8

Philadelphia Phillies 34-19
1st Place in the N.L. East, 1 1/2 games ahead of the Mets

Phillies Probables
Ranger Suarez (3-0, 3.70)
Zack Wheeler (6-1, 2.42)
Cristopher Sanchez (4-1, 3.17)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .310
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 41
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 18
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 40
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 14

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 6
ERA:  Jesus Luzardo - 2.15
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 88
Saves:  Jose Alvarado - 7

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Game 53 - Nine Game Winning Streak Comes to an End

Philadelphia Phillies	4
Athletics	5

2013 Panini
Hometown Heroes #207

Sunday Afternoon, May 25th

Sutter Health Park - West Sacramento, CA
34-19, 1st Place, 2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Matt Strahm couldn't hold a narrow one-run lead, allowing the Athletics to score twice in the eighth, eventually winning the game, 5-4.

What It Means:  The modest nine-game winning streak came to an end.  After an off day on Memorial Day, the Phillies open a six-game homestead on Tuesday against the Braves and Brewers.

What Happened:  Jesus Luzardo's day started off shaky, as the starter allowed three first inning runs, but he'd settle in after the first to shut down the Athletics over the next six innings.  He struck out 10 in his outing.  Trea Turner singled to center in the third to score Brandon Marsh and cut the score to 3-2.  Turner tied the score in the fifth with a sacrifice fly.  And Turner briefly gave the Phillies the lead int he eighth with a solo home run.  With one out in the bottom of the eighth and Strahm on the mound, Logan Davidson walked and Lawrence Butler tripled him home.  Willie MacIver singled home Butler to give the Athletics the lead and hand Strahm his second blown save of the season.

Featured Card:  The loss gives me a chance to feature one of the all-time great Phillies born in Sacramento, Larry Bowa.  Other former Phillies born in Sacramento include John Vukovich, Rhys Hoskins, Dick Ruthven, Lowell Palmer, Brad Lidge, Randy Lerch and Brock Stassi.

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Game 52 - Phils Rally for Late-Night, Extra Inning Win in Sacramento

Philadelphia Phillies	9
Athletics	6

11 Innings

2025 Topps #141

Late Saturday Night, May 24th

Sutter Health Park - West Sacramento, CA
34-18, 1st Place, 3 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies battled back to tie this game in the ninth and win the game in 11th, extending their winning streak to nine.

What It Means:  They'll go for the series sweep later this afternoon in Sacramento, in a game I should be able to stay awake for the entire nine innings.

What Happened:  I called it a night with the Phillies ahead 4-3, following a solo home run from Kyle Schwarber in the top of the sixth.  Nick Castellanos had doubled in the first to score a pair of runs, and Alec Bohm had hit a solo home run in the top of the fourth.  The Athletics scored twice in the bottom of the sixth off reliever Jose Ruiz, and the Phillies answered with another run of their own, on an RBI-single from Bryce Harper, in the top of the seventh, tying the score at 5-5.  Brent Rooker's solo home run in the eighth off Joe Ross gave the Athletics a brief 6-5 lead.  With one out in the ninth and closer Mason Miller on the hill, Max Kepler once again tied the game with a solo home run to right center field.

Tanner Banks and Orion Kerkering kept the Athletics from scoring in their half of the ninth and tenth innings.  In the 11th, Schwarber doubled home ghost runner Kepler and Turner, who had walked to reach, to give the Phillies an 8-6 lead.  Castellanos would later plate Schwarber with a sacrifice fly.  The bullpen now depleted, Max Lazar shut down the Athletics in the bottom of the 11th to clinch the win and earn his first career save.

Featured Card:  Lazar gets some consideration here, but Schwarber gets the card for his solo home run and game-winning double.

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Game 51 - Phils Hang On to Win in Sacramento; Winning Streak at 8

Philadelphia Phillies	4
Athletics	3

2025 Topps Now Road to Opening Day #OD-190

Late Friday Night, May 23rd

Sutter Health Park - West Sacramento, CA
33-18, 1st Place, 3 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies hung on to win their first-ever game played in Sacramento, against the currently mononymous and future Las Vegas Athletics.

What It Means:  The Phillies have an eight-game winning streak, and the best winning percentage in baseball.  The Tigers, with a 33-19 record, are percentage points behind them.

What Happened:  Trea Turner connected for his first career lead-off home run to start the game, and for seven innings, that was the only scoring from either team.  Zack Wheeler pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing three hits, two walks and striking out eight.  He'd improve to 6-1.  With the tying run on third and two outs in the eighth, Johan Rojas made a winding, leaping catch to record the final out of the inning and preserve the lead.  The offense added important, and ultimately needed, insurance runs in the top of the ninth with RBIs from Alec Bohm (double), Rojas (single) and Turner (single).

Jordan Romano, who had been pitching well, got into trouble in the ninth.  He allowed two to reach and then Nick Kurtz hit a three-run home run to get the Athletics to within a run.  Tanner Banks would relieve Romano, striking out Lawrence Butler to end the game and record his first save.

Featured Card:  Let's go with Rojas here, as the outfielder hasn't had any featured cards so far this year.

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Philadelphia Phillies at Athletics - Three Games with the Transient A's

2005 Topps #430

2005 Topps Update #UH53

Friday, May 23rd - 10:05
Saturday, May 24th - 10:05
Sunday, May 25th - 4:05

Sutter Health Park - West Sacramento, CA
With the Athletics, formerly of Philadelphia, Kansas City and Oakland, without a permanent home yet, there are no giveaways or promotions scheduled for this series.  Sutter Health Park is still also the home ballpark of the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats, the Giants' top affiliate.

Philadelphia Phillies 32-18
1st Place in the N.L. East, 2 games ahead of the Mets

Phillies Probables
Zack Wheeler (5-1, 2.67)
Cristopher Sanchez (4-1, 3.10)
Jesus Luzardo (5-0, 1.95)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .303
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 38
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 17
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 37
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 12

Wins:  Jesus Luzardo and Zack Wheeler - 5
ERA:  Jesus Luzardo - 1.95
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 80
Saves:  Jose Alvarado - 7

Athletics 22-29
5th Place in the A.L. West, 7 games behind the Mariners

Athletics Probables
Jeffrey Springs (5-3, 3.91)
TBD
Gunnar Hoglund (1-2, 5.06)

Athletics Leaders
Average:  Jacob Wilson - .342
Runs:  Brent Rooker - 31
Home Runs:  Brent Rooker - 11
RBIs:  Tyler Soderstrom - 30
Stolen Bases:  Lawrence Butler - 8

Wins:  Jeffrey Springs - 5
ERA:  Jeffrey Springs - 3.91

Strikeouts:  Luis Severino - 50
Saves:  Mason Miller - 11

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Game 50 - Phils Exit Denver with Four-Game Sweep

Philadelphia Phillies	2
Colorado Rockies	0

2024 Topps Brooklyn
Collection #26

Thursday Afternoon, May 22nd

Coors Field - Denver, CO
32-18, 1st Place, 2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Ranger Suarez and three relievers combined to shut out the Rockies, completing the four game sweep and giving the Phillies a two-game lead over the Mets in the division.

What It Means:  The Phillies have won seven in a row, completing a three-game sweep of the Pirates and this sweep of the Rockies.  They've won 13 of their last 16 games.  Up next is a three-game set against the Athletics in Sacramento.

What Happened:   Suarez improved to 3-0, scattering six hits and striking out six in 6 2/3 innings.  Orion Kerkerking, Matt Strahm and Jordan Romano pitched the final 2 1/3 scoreless innings to lock down the shutout.  Romano was perfect, earning his sixth save.  In the fourth, Bryson Stott reached on an error, stole second and scored on Bryce Harper's double.  In the seventh, Kyle Schwarber walked to lead off the inning and scored an important insurance run when Max Kepler doubled him home.  It was a classic getaway day game, taking just two hours and 19 minutes to complete.

Featured Card:  Over the past 16 games, Harper is batting .361 (22 for 61) with seven doubles, two home runs and 14 RBIs.  I have more Harper cards than will ever see this blog, so I'll take this low-scoring affair as an opportunity to post one of the newest, and funkiest, cards of his in my collection.

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Game 49 - Phils Continue to Rock Rockies

Philadelphia Phillies	9
Colorado Rockies	5

2025 Topps Heritage #143

Wednesday Night, May 21st

Coors Field - Denver, CO
31-18, 1st Place, 1 1/2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  J.T. Realmuto took his turn beating up Rockies' pitching and Taijuan Walker had another solid effort in this 9-5 win.

What It Means:  A win on Thursday afternoon would give the Phillies a four-game sweep of the Rockies, still searching for their ninth win of the season.

What Happened:  Once again the Phillies jumped on the scoreboard early, with Trea Turner opening the game with a single, moving to second when Bryce Harper singled, stealing third base and scoring on a throwing error by catcher Hunter Goodman.  Harper would score next on a Nick Castellanos sacrifice fly, making it 2-0, Phillies.  Turner and Harper connected for back-to-back home runs to lead off the third, and Realmuto's two-run double later in the inning gave the Phillies a 6-2 lead.  Realmuto added to the barrage with a two-run home run in the sixth.

Featured Card:  Here's Realmuto's card from the 1976-inspired and recently released Topps Heritage set.

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Game 48 - Phils Win in Denver; Braves Win in Williamstown

Philadelphia Phillies	7
Colorado Rockies	4

Tuesday Night, May 20th

Coors Field - Denver, CO
30-18, 1st Place, 1 1/2 games ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Jesus Luzardo continued his impressive start to the 2025 season and Bryce Harper went 3 for 5 with a pair of RBIs in this 7-4 win over the Rockies.

What It Means:  The game story from Phillies.com pointed out Luzardo is only the third Phillies pitcher to go unbeaten with a sub-2.00 ERA through his first ten starts in a season, joining Ranger Suarez (2024) and Grover Cleveland Alexander (1913).

What Happened:  Luzardo improved to 5-0 and saw his ERA drop to 1.95, allowing a pair of hits and striking out 10 over six innings.  The Phillies received big hits throughout the line-up, including a two-run double from Bryce Harper in the first, an RBI-double from Max Kepler in the fifth, and a solo home run from Kyle Schwarber in the seventh.

Featured Card/Field Report:  Before this Phillies game started, we paid tribute to our son Doug and his senior baseball classmates at his high school's annual Senior Night game.  Fortunately, the team pulled out a win, but more importantly there were moments from both the pre and post game ceremonies I'll never forget.  I took the field with the other Dads as we caught ceremonial first pitches thrown by our boys.  I listened proudly as Doug walked up to lead off the bottom of the first to Paul McCartney's "Live and Let Die," a song that would have been my walk-up music had I ever had the chance to need walk-up music.  I experienced the entire night with our family in attendance, taking pictures and making it that much more special because they were there too.

I thought about my Dad a lot.  He would have loved it.  He was there when the speaker hooked up to Doug's iPhone blasted Billy Joel's "Piano Man" for some reason as parents, players and coaches hugged on the field after the game.  That was the only time I nearly lost it.

I'm grateful for the fantastic baseball season Doug had statistically, but I'm even happier he had fun throughout the whole year and he made lifelong memories.  He learned life lessons, solidified lifelong friendships and proved that hard work pays off.  In a preseason vote, he was chosen unanimously as a team captain, and he wore that badge with honor and showed what a true leader he is.  I couldn't be prouder of him and I'm excited for whatever comes next.  Volume One of his baseball journey is ending, Volume Two starts next.

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Game 47 - Schwarber's 300th Career Homer Highlights Win

Philadelphia Phillies	9
Colorado Rockies	3

2025 Topps Now #195

Monday Night, May 19th

Coors Field - Denver, CO
29-18, 1st Place, 1/2 game ahead of the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies scored seven runs over the final two innings and Kyle Schwarber hit his 300th career home run in this 9-3 win over the Rockies.

What It Means:  This win and a Mets loss pushed the Phillies into sole possession of first place for the first time since April 9th.

What Happened:  Cristopher Sanchez got the start and allowed three runs on five hits, while striking out seven over six innings.  He departed with his team trailing, 3-1.  Down 3-2 heading to the eighth, the Phillies would score four times in the eighth and three more times in the ninth.  Alec Bohm hit a two-run home run, his third of the season, to give the Phillies a 4-3 lead.  Trea Turner plated two more with an RBI-double later in the inning.  Schwarber hit his moonshot, a 466 foot blast to right field and the third longest home run so far this season, to lead off the ninth, becoming the 11th active player to reach the 300 home run plateau.  Edmundo Sosa would cap the scoring with a two-run home run before the Rockies escaped the inning.

Featured Card:  Here's the Topps Now card issued to celebrate Schwarber's milestone.

Transaction:  As was the plan, Mick Abel (rhp) was optioned down to Lehigh Valley following his big league debut, and Max Lazar (rhp) was recalled to provide bullpen assistance.

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Game 46 - Abel is More Than Able in MLB Debut, Outduels Skenes

Pittsburgh Pirates	0
Philadelphia Phillies	1

2025 Topps Now #194

Sunday Afternoon, May 18th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
28-18, 2nd Place, 1/2 game behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Making his big league debut, Mick Abel shut down the Pirates for six innings, striking out nine, as the Phillies squeaked by Paul Skenes and the Pirates, 1-0.

What It Means:  The win completed the three-game sweep against the Pirates, with a four-game series in Denver up next.  The Rockies have won eight games all season.

What Happened:  Abel was calm, cool and collected on the mound, scattering five hits, walking none and tying the franchise record for strikeouts in a debut with nine.  Curt Simmons also had nine strikeouts in his debut with the Phillies on September 28, 1947.  The Pirates outhit the Phillies, six to three, but the Phillies were able to manufacture a run in the fifth inning.  Nick Castellanos led off with a single and hustled to third when Max Kepler singled to right.  Brandon Marsh grounded out to short, barely beating out a potential double play, scoring Castellanos.  Orion Kerkering, Matt Strahm and Jordan Romano pitched the final three scoreless innings, striking out five more Pirates batters.

Featured Card:  As expected/hoped Topps issued a Topps Now card for Abel's performance and MLB debut.

Transaction:  The good vibes generated by Abel's debut were somewhat negated from the very bad news for the Phillies' bullpen.  Abel (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley, with Daniel Robert (rhp) heading back down.  Jose Alvarado (lhp) was placed on the restricted list after testing positive for a PED.  The team's closer was suspended 80 games and he's ineligible for the postseason.  Jose Ruiz (rhp) was activated from the injured list to take his place in the bullpen.  Alvarado was a likely candidate for the All-Star Game, and now he'll miss the bulk of the summer and all of October.

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Philadelphia Phillies at Colorado Rockies - Phils Hope to Rock On

2005 Topps #69

2025 Chachi Series Preview #3

Monday, May 19th - 8:40
Tuesday, May 20th - 8:40
Wednesday, May 21st - 8:40
Thursday, May 22nd - 3:10

Coors Field - Denver, CO
The Rockies are hoping a BOGO hot dog night on Tuesday draws some fans to the ballpark.

Philadelphia Phillies 28-18
2nd Place in the N.L. East, 1/2 game behind the Mets

Phillies Probables
Cristopher Sanchez (4-1, 2.91)
Jesus Luzardo (4-0, 2.00)
Taijuan Walker (1-3, 2.62)
Ranger Suarez (2-0, 5.09)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .294
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 32
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 15
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 35
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 10

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 5
ERA:  Jesus Luzardo - 2.00
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 80
Saves:  Jose Alvarado - 7

Colorado Rockies 8-38
5th Place in the N.L. West, 20 1/2 games behind the Dodgers

Rockies Probables
Kyle Freeland (0-6, 6.15)
Antonio Senzatela (1-7, 6.39)
Carson Palmquist (0-1, 11.25)
German Marquez (1-6, 8.78)

Rockies Leaders
Average:  Hunter Goodman - .299
Runs:  Jordan Beck and Hunter Goodman - 24
Home Runs:  Jordan Beck - 8
RBIs:  Hunter Goodman - 29
Stolen Bases:  Jordan Beck - 5

Wins:  Chase Dollander - 2
ERA:  N/A

Strikeouts:  Chase Dollander - 38
Saves:  Zach Agnos and Seth Halvorsen - 2

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Game 45 - Wheeler's Dominance Continues, Stott Drives in Three

Pittsburgh Pirates	2
Philadelphia Phillies	5

2025 Topps Now 
Road to Opening Day #OD-186

Saturday Night, May 17th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
27-18, 2nd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Zack Wheeler pitched six shutout innings and Bryson Stott went 2 for 5 with three RBIs in this 5-2 win over the Pirates.

What It Means:  The Phillies will go for the series sweep this afternoon as Mick Abel makes his big league debut.

What Happened:  Wheeler allowed three hits and struck out six in his latest strong outing.  The Pirates pushed across two runs in ninth off Tanner Banks.  Kyle Schwarber doubled home the game's first run with an RBI double in the first, scoring Trea Turner.  Stott hit a solo home run in the third, giving the Phillies a 2-0 lead.  In a three-run fourth inning, Alec Bohm singled, Brandon Marsh doubled, Stott singled Bohm and Marsh home, and Harper doubled Stott home.  Stott also stole his ninth base of the season in the win.

Featured Card:  It was a toss-up between Wheeler and Stott, but I'll give the nod to Stott as he had a big night offensively.

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Game 44 - Harper Collects 1,000th Career RBI in Phils Win

Pittsburgh Pirates	4
Philadelphia Phillies	8

2025 Topps Now #187

Friday Night, May 16th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
26-18, 2nd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Bryce Harper collected his 1,000th career RBI in support of Ranger Suarez's fine pitching performance against the Pirates in this 8-4 win.

What It Means:  Direct from the Phillies.com summary of the game, Harper is the 14th player in history to reach 1,000 RBIs, 1,000 runs and 1,000 walks before turning 33.  11 of the 13 other players are currently in the Hall of Fame, and the other two (Barry Bonds and Albert Pujols) one day will be.

What Happened:  The game was scoreless until the bottom of the fifth.  With two outs and runners on the corners, Harper blooped a single to left to score Johan Rojas.  The Pirates took a 3-1 lead in the sixth on Alexander Canario's three-run home run off Suarez, his only mistake of the night.  The Phillies plated four runs in the seventh, on a pair of bases loaded walks, a bases loaded hit by pitch and a sacrifice fly.  Three more runs scored in the eighth, highlighted by an RBI-triple from Trea Turner and Harper's 1,001st RBI on a single to right to score Turner.

Featured Card:  I'm doing something different this year, and matching up Topps Now cards issued for Phillies highlights with the actual game summary post.  The Phillies' appearances in Topps Now have been sparse so far this year, with Harper joining Zack Wheeler as the only two game performances worthy of inclusion so far.

Transaction:  In a somewhat surprising development, Aaron Nola (rhp) was placed on the injured list with a right ankle sprain and Daniel Robert (rhp) quickly returned from Lehigh Valley following his demotion after the double header with the Cardinals.  Nola is 1-7 with a 6.16 ERA for the season, and it's his first injury list stint since 2017.

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Philadelphia Phillies - Bucs in Town for the Weekend

2005 Topps #423

2025 Chachi Series Preview #2

Friday, May 16th - 6:45
Saturday, May 17th - 6:05
Sunday, May 18th - 1:35

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
All fans attending tonight's game will receive a great-looking Zack Wheeler bobblehead.  On Sunday, all kids will receive a Phanatic children's book.

Pittsburgh Pirates 15-29
5th Place in the N.L. Central, 10 games behind the Cubs

Pirates Probables
Andrew Heaney (2-3, 3.15)
Carmen Mlodzinski (1-3, 5.20)
Paul Skenes (3-4, 2.63)

Pirates Leaders
Average:  Joey Bart - .281
Runs:  Oneil Cruz - 23
Home Runs:  Oneil Cruz - 8
RBIs:  Bryan Reynolds - 20
Stolen Bases:  Oneil Cruz - 16

Wins:  Paul Skenes - 3
ERA:  Paul Skenes - 2.63

Strikeouts:  Paul Skenes - 53
Saves:  Dennis Santana - 4

Philadelphia Phillies 25-18
2nd Place in the N.L. East, 2 1/2 games behind the Mets

Phillies Probables
Ranger Suarez (1-0, 5.91)
Zack Wheeler (4-1, 2.95)
Cristopher Sanchez (4-1, 2.91)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .299
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 31
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 15
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 33
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 10

Wins:  Four tied with - 4
ERA:  Jesus Luzardo - 2.00
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 74
Saves:  Jose Alvarado - 6

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Game 43 - Nola Blasted by Cards

St. Louis Cardinals	14
Philadelphia Phillies	7

Game 2

2024 Choice
Round Rock Express #18

Wednesday Night, May 7th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
25-18, 2nd Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Aaron Nola suffered through the worst start of his career, and the Cardinals rolled to a 14-7 win.

What It Means:  This was a frustrating loss, and it's tough to watch Nola go through such a rough streak.

What Happened:  The Phillies held a 5-1 lead after the first inning, and all seemed right with the world.  The big blow was a two-run home run from J.T. Realmuto after Nick Castellanos had doubled home a pair and Max Kepler contributed an RBI single.  Nola gave up a solo home run to Lara Nootbaar to start the third and the wheels came off after that, with the half inning ending with the Cardinals up, 6-5.  

Kyle Schwarber hit a home run to lead off the bottom of the third and tie the score, but then Nola gave up another home run and loaded the bases before departing.  His final line - 3 2/3 innings, nine runs, 12 hits, including three home runs.  The Cardinals would score five more runs off Taijuan Walker and Carlos Hernandez in the later innings.

Featured Card:  Daniel Robert was called on to make his Phillies debut and work out of a mess created by Hernandez in the top of the ninth.  He struck out Nolan Arenando to end the inning and was on his way back to Lehigh Valley following the game.  Guys like Robert fascinate me, as his Phillies career could be limited to this one appearance.  He'll likely never have a Phillies baseball card, other than the custom Chachi card I'll be creating soon.  Here's his most recent baseball card appearance, from a prior year minor league team set.

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Game 42 - Luzardo, 'Pen Handle Cards in Game One

St. Louis Cardinals	1
Philadelphia Phillies	2

Game 1

2025 Topps Heritage #478

Wednesday Afternoon, May 14th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA

25-17

One Sentence Summary:  Jesus Luzardo improved to 4-0 and the Phillies plated a pair of runs in the seventh inning to take the matinee end of a double header against the Cardinals.

What It Means:  Tuesday's rain-out necessitated the doubling up on Wednesday with Luzardo opting to start the earlier game.

What Happened:  Luzardo allowed a run on five hits while striking out six in his latest win.  Jose Alvarado, Orion Kerkering and Jordan Romano held the Cardinals scoreless over the final three innings.  Kerkering worked out of one-out, runners at second and third situation in the eighth, inherited from Jose Alvarado.  Romano struck out the side in the ninth for his fourth save.

In the bottom of the seventh, three straight singles from Weston Wilson, Rafael Marchan and Bryson Stott tied the score at 1-1.  Bryce Harper singled home Marchan with the eventual winning run.

Featured Card:  Here's Luzardo's first Phillies card, from the recently released Topps Heritage set.  Luzardo is wearing a Marlins uniform here, but Topps photoshopped him into a road Phillies jersey and hat.

Transaction:  Daniel Robert (rhp) was added to the roster as the club's 27th man for the double header.  He was optioned back to Lehigh Valley following the nightcap.

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Game 41 - Phils Can't Overcome Cards

St. Louis Cardinals	3
Philadelphia Phillies	2

2025 Topps Heritage Chrome
Light Blue Sparkle Refractor #7

Monday Night, May 12th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
24-17, 2nd Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Matt Strahm surrendered his first home run of the season to Masyn Winn in the seventh inning, leading to this 3-2 loss to the Cardinals.

What It Means:  The Phillies need to win the next two against the Cardinals to improve their series win streak to six.

What Happened:  Cristopher Sanchez pitched well, giving up single runs in the fourth and sixth innings, and striking out eight.  The Phillies would tie the game, twice, in the bottom of both those innings.  In the fourth, Edmundo Sosa singled home J.T. Realmuto, and in the sixth, Kyle Schwarber scored when Realmuto grounded into a fielder's choice.  Schwarber's streak for reaching base safely reached 47 games.  The offense went 1 for 7 overall with runners in scoring position.

Featured Card:  Statistically, Strahm continues to be one of the Phillies' best relievers, but I can't help but get nervous every time he takes the mound.  This is a shiny card of his, with a really long name, recently added to my collection from the new Topps Heritage set.

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