Game 26 - Losing Streak Reaches Double Digits

Philadelphia Phillies	3
Atlanta Braves	5

1999 Blueline Scranton/
Wilkes-Barre Red Barons #25

Friday Night, April 24th

Truist Park - Atlanta, GA
8-18, 5th Place, 10 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Home runs from Trea Turner and Bryce Harper weren't enough as the Phillies fell to the Braves, 5-3, dropping their 10th game in a row.

What It Means:  This is definitely alarming.

What Happened:  During this losing streak, any lead held by the Phillies has been frustratingly brief.  Turner hit his two-run home run in the top of the third, giving the Phillies a momentary 2-0 lead.  Ronald Acuna, Jr. countered with a two-run home run of his own in the bottom of the inning, tying the score.  Harper hit a solo home run, his sixth of the season, in the fifth.  But the Braves stormed back with three runs in the bottom of the sixth, chasing starter Andrew Painter in the process.  Painter fell to 1-2, allowing five runs on nine hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Featured Card:  The losing streak is the longest from the Phillies this century.  They last lost at least 10 games in a row back in 1999, when they had an 11-game losing streak that September with manager Terry Francona at the helm.  The pitchers on the mound on September 13, 1999, when the Phillies lost 13-2 to the Astros, their 10th loss in a row, were Joe Grahe, Cliff Politte, Chad Ogea, Steve Schrenk and Steve Montgomery.  Ron Gant had a pair of doubles for the Phillies in the loss.

Transaction:  Alex McFarlane (rhp) was recalled from Double-A Reading to briefly take Taijuan Walker's spot on the roster.  McFarlane wouldn't see any game action and would be on his way back to Reading following this game.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 25 - Phils Fall in Extras as Losing Streak Hits Nine

Philadelphia Phillies	7
Chicago Cubs	8

10 Innings

1929-30 Exhibits Four-in-One (W463-1)

Thursday Afternoon, April 23rd

Wrigley Field - Chicago, IL
8-17, 5th Place, 9 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies just fell short of stopping their losing streak, falling in extra innings to the Cubs, 8-7.

What It Means:  After losing nine in a row, the Phillies own sole possession of last place.  Hard to believe, Harry.

What Happened:  The Phillies countered the Cubs' 18-hit barrage with just eight hits, but it was encouraging to see them battle back with five late inning runs.  Cristopher Sanchez labored through 5 1/3 innings of work, allowing six runs on 12 hits, including a pair of home runs.  (Maybe he was tipping his pitches?) 

Brandon Marsh was 3 for 4 with two home runs, including a solo shot in the second to give the Phillies a 1-0 lead, and another solo home run in the seventh to make it 6-3 Cubs.  The Phillies made it a 6-6 game in the eighth on an Edmundo Sosa RBI-single to center, scoring pinch-runner Dylan Moore.  Brad Keller gave up a home run to Seiya Suzuki in the bottom of the eighth, giving the Cubs a 7-6 lead.  Adolis Garcia connected for a dramatic pinch-hit home run in the top of the ninth, once again knotting the score.

The Phillies couldn't push across a run in their half of the tenth, and the Cubs made quick work of Tanner Banks in the bottom of the tenth, with Dansby Swanson singling home the winning run.

Featured Card:  Let's dwell on the Taijuan Walker release a little more.  I found this tidbit fascinating, and troubling at the same time:  Walker leaves the club with the fourth highest ERA in team history (5.12), with a minimum of 70 starts, behind Les Sweetland (6.33), Claude Willoughby (5.83) and Nick Pivetta (5.50).  I have a Sweetland card in my collection - this 1929-30 Exhibits Four-in-One card.

Transaction:  Walker (rhp) was released.  Nolan Hoffman (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley and Alan Rangel (rhp) was optioned back down.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 24 - Cubs Crush Walker as Skid Hits Eight

Philadelphia Phillies	2
Chicago Cubs	7

2025 Philadelphia Phillies Photocards

Wednesday Night, April 22nd

Wrigley Field - Chicago, IL
8-16, Tied for 4th Place, 8 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  In Taijuan Walker's final appearance with the Phillies, the righty entered in the second inning and allowed five runs (four earned) in four innings of work.

What It Means:  The Phillies dropped their eighth in a row.

What Happened:  Kyle Backus served as an opener and allowed a first inning run to the Cubs before Walker entered and surrendered five more.  The Phillies enjoyed a brief offensive outburst in the second inning, momentarily taking a 2-1 lead.  Felix Reyes singled, went to second when Alec Bohm singled and came home on an Edmundo Sosa double.  Bohm scored on a Justin Crawford ground-out.  Alan Rangel soaked up the final three innings, allowing a run on three hits while striking out five.

Featured Card:  Walker's tenure with the Phillies was marred by too many disastrous outings.  He had a decent year last year, but his 9.13 ERA this season and inability to pitch a clean first inning, coupled with the looming return of Zack Wheeler, meant his time with the club had run out.  In 89 games with the Phillies, the most games he's pitched with any of his five clubs, Walker was 24-25 with a 5.12 ERA.  He would be officially released on Thursday afternoon.

Transaction:  As the bad news continued to mount, J.T. Realmuto (c) was placed on the 10-day injured list with back spasms and Garrett Stubbs (c) had his contract selected.  Max Lazar (rhp) was transferred to the 60-day injured list to make room for Stubbs on the 40-man roster.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Philadelphia Phillies at Atlanta Braves: Phils Hope to Stop Losing Skid

2006 Topps #306

2006 Topps Updates & Highlights #UH111

Friday, April 24th - 7:15
Saturday, April 25th - 7:15
Sunday, April 26th - 1:35

Truist Park - Atlanta, GA
It a Star Wars theme night at the ballpark tonight with special ticket holders receiving a Matt Olson and Grogu bobblehead.  On Saturday, Brian Snitker will be inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame.  And on Sunday, the first 3,000 kids will receive a Michael Harris II mini bobblehead.

Philadelphia Phillies 8-17
5th Place in the N.L. East, 9 1/2 games behind the Braves

Phillies Probables
Andrew Painter (1-1, 4.42)
Zack Wheeler (0-0, 0.00)
Aaron Nola (1-2, 5.06)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Brandon Marsh - .300
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 15
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 8
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 15
Stolen Bases:  Bryson Stott - 5

Wins:  Cristopher Sanchez - 2
ERA:  Cristopher Sanchez - 2.94

Strikeouts:  Cristopher Sanchez - 43
Saves:  Jhoan Duran - 5

Atlanta Braves 18-8
1st Place in the N.L. East, 5 1/2 games ahead of the Marlins

Braves Probables
Grant Holmes (1-1, 3.42)
Bryce Elder (3-1, 1.50)
Chris Sale (4-1, 2.79)

Braves Leaders
Average:  Drake Baldwin - .318
Runs:  Drake Baldwin - 27
Home Runs:  Drake Baldwin and Matt Olson - 7
RBIs:  Drake Baldwin - 23
Stolen Bases:  Ronald Acuna - 4

Wins:  Chris Sale - 4
ERA:  Bryce Elder - 1.50

Strikeouts:  Bryce Elder and Chris Sale - 29
Saves:  Raisel Iglesias - 5

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 23 - Signs of Life, But Another Loss

Philadelphia Phillies	4
Chicago Cubs	7

1960 Leaf #44

Tuesday Night, April 21st

Wrigley Field - Chicago, IL
8-15, 4th Place, 7 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper homered, but the offensive woes continued and Jesus Luzardo walked four in his shortened outing, leading to a 7-4 loss to the Cubs.

What It Means:  The Phillies have lost seven in a row and 12 of their last 15 games.

What Happened:  Luzardo was in constant trouble, but he allowed only one run in his 4 2/3 innings of work.  Tanner Banks gave up two more runs and Tim Mayza surrendered a two-run home run to Seiya Suzuki in the seventh, putting the game out of reach.  Jose Alavardo endured his own rough outing in the eighth before departing with back spasms.  The Phillies were held scoreless until the sixth when Schwarber hit his solo home run, tying the game at 1-1.  Harper added a two-run blast in the eighth, and the Phillies mounted a mini-rally in the ninth, scoring an unearned run, before Cubs' reliever Caleb Thielbar got Trea Turner to pop up to end the game.

Featured Card:  How about a great Cubs baseball card of Phillies Wall of Famer Tony Taylor?

Transaction:  Seth Johnson (rhp) was shuttled back to Lehigh Valley and Alan Rangel (rhp) was called up  to take his place.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Happy Birthday Ben!

The day almost snuck away from me without me posting on our youngest son's birthday, his milestone 16th birthday.  We'll celebrate with family and friends this coming weekend, so today was fairly low-key.  We did watch him compete and win his tennis doubles match, his second win of the season, and the win that notched the team victory.  Ben never ceases to amaze us with his creativity, imagination, sense of humor, kindness and spirit of adventure.  He's going places for sure, and the sky is the limit for this kid.

Memory Lane

2010 - Welcome Ben!

2010 - Ben is born, Roy Halladay wins, all is right with the world

2011 - Ben turns one as Roy Oswalt pitches the Phillies past the Padres

2012 - Happy 2nd Birthday Ben!

2013 - Happy 3rd Birthday Ben!
2014 - Ben is Four!
2015 - Ben is Five!
2016 - Ben and Chewbacca
2017 - Ben is Seven!
2018 - Ben is Eight!
2019 - Ben at the Grand Canyon
2020 - Ben is Ten! (Social distancing version)

2021 - Ben, accomplished piano player, amazing kid, turns 11

2022 - This kid, with unlimited potential and an unrivaled imagination, is 12.

2023 - Ben enters teen years. (What?)

2024 - The 14 Era begins.

2025 - Busy Ben, Varsity tennis player, turns 15.

2026 - Sweet 16

Game 22 - Losing Streak Reaches Six

Philadelphia Phillies	1
Chicago Cubs	5

2009 Topps Heritage #465

Monday Night, April 20th

Wrigley Field - Chicago, IL
8-14, 4th Place, 7 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  A shaky start from Aaron Nola, dazzling Cubs defense and the complete absence of any Phillies offense led to this 5-1 loss.

What It Means:  Amazingly enough, the only thing keeping the Phillies out of last place is that the Mets are playing even worse.  The Mets have lost 11 in a row and are a game behind the Phillies in the standings.

What Happened:  Nola was chased in the fifth inning after laboring through the start of the ballgame.  He gave up a three-run home run to Dansby Swanson in the bottom of the second, and the way the Phillies have been playing, the game seemed out of reach at that early stage.  Brandon Marsh singled to start the fourth and Justin Crawford would double him home.  Kyle Schwarber was 0 for 5 with a pair of strikeouts, Alec Bohm was 0 for 3 with some bad at-bats, dropping his season average to .133.  And back-up catcher Rafael Marchan, filling in while J.T. Realmuto is out with a bad back, had a hit to raise his season average to .065.

Featured Card:  Hitting coach Kevin Long hasn't appeared on a baseball card since 2009.  He's been with the Phillies since the 2022 season, and has previously coached with the Yankees (2007-14), Mets (2015-17) and Nationals (2018-21).  Yet he's completely avoided any oddball or team-issued cards.  The Phillies continue to produce a small print run of team-issued photo cards for their coaches, but as far as I  know, they've never produced a card for Long.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Philadelphia Phillies at Chicago Cubs: Searching for a W

2006 Topps #432

2006 Topps #536

Monday, April 20th - 7:40
Tuesday, April 21st - 7:40
Wednesday, April 22nd - 7:40
Thursday, April 23rd - 2:20

Wrigley Field - Chicago, IL
The Cubs seem to do a lot of special theme nights, and this series is no exception.  Tonight is DePaul University night, tomorrow is Loyola University night and Wednesday there's a Cubs Survivor 50 cap and wrap/buff available with a special theme ticket . . . that's sold out.

Philadelphia Phillies 8-13
4th Place in the N.L. East, 6 1/2 games behind the Braves

Phillies Probables
Aaron Nola (1-1, 4.03)
Jesus Luzardo (1-3, 7.94)
Taijuan Walker (1-3, 9.16)
Cristopher Sanchez (2-2, 1.59)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Justin Crawford - .276
Runs:  Trea Turner - 14
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 7
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 14
Stolen Bases:  Bryson Stott - 4

Wins:  Cristopher Sanchez - 2
ERA:  Cristopher Sanchez - 1.59

Strikeouts:  Cristopher Sanchez - 39
Saves:  Jhoan Duran - 5

Chicago Cubs 12-9
Tied for 4th Place in the N.L. Central, 1 1/2 games behind the Reds

Cubs Probables
Colin Rea (2-0, 3.63)
Shota Imanaga (1-1, 2.45)
Edward Cabrera (2-0, 2.38)
Jameson Taillon (1-1, 3.97)

Cubs Leaders
Average:  Nico Hoerner - .325
Runs:  Dansby Swanson - 19
Home Runs:  Ian Happ - 6
RBIs:  Nico Hoerner - 21
Stolen Bases:  Nico Hoerner - 7

Wins:  Three tied with - 2
ERA:  Edward Cabrera - 2.38

Strikeouts:  Shota Imanaga - 31
Saves:  Three tied with - 1

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 21 - Phils Adrift in a Sea of Losses

Atlanta Braves	4
Philadelphia Phillies	2

2015 Topps Update #US166

Sunday Night, April 19th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-13, 4th Place, 6 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies went relatively quietly against the Braves, dropping this game on a rainy and raw Sunday night in front of a national audience and limping out of town to Chicago.

What It Means:  I'm not joining the portion of the fanbase calling for Rob Thomson to be fired.  I don't think a new manager would be able to figure out why none of the team's sluggers are doing their jobs, and I never think panic is a viable strategy.  I do think changes are needed, and maybe that's a shake-up with the coaching staff, a trade, a high-profile demotion . . . something.

What Happened:  The Phillies took a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first when Kyle Schwarber dropped his seventh home run of the year just over the right field wall.  Trea Turner had singled in front of him to start the game.  And that was the run output for the night.  They had chances, going 0 for 6 with runners in scoring position, but a big inning or a clutch hit just never showed up.  Andrew Painter went four innings, allowing three runs on five hits.  Tim Mayza entered the game in a critical spot and allowed both of his inherited runners from Painter to score.  In the bottom of the ninth, with two runners on, Schwarber lined out to Ronald Acuna, Jr. to end the game, in what likely would have been a game-tying double with anyone else in right field.

Featured Card:  This is the team's worst start through 21 games since the 99-loss 2015 season when they also started 8-13.  Manager Ryne Sandberg would announce he had had enough that June and he was replaced by Pete Mackanin on an interim basis.  That team fell to 8-13 on April 28, 2015 in a 11-5 loss to the Cardinals.  Starter Severino Gonzalez allowed seven runs on 10 hits in 2 2/3 innings.  This 2026 Phillies team is currently giving me 2015 vibes.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 20 - Reyes Homers in First AB, Phils Still Lose

Atlanta Braves	1
Philadelphia Phillies	3

2024 Choice Jersey Shore
BlueClaws #27

Saturday Night, April 18th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-12, 4th Place, 5 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Felix Reyes provided a momentary spark with his first career home run, but otherwise it was the same disappointing offense from the Phillies in this 3-1 loss.

What It Means:  I keep wondering when and if they've hit the low point for the season, and maybe this is it?

What Happened:  All three Braves runs scored in the third and were unearned as Edmundo Sosa committed a costly error.  Christopher Sanchez allowed just those three unearned runs in his six innings of work, on eight hits while walking one and striking out eight.  J.T. Realmuto left the game in the seventh with back tightness.  Nothing is going right.

Featured Card:  Reyes, who has been raking for Lehigh Valley, earned a promotion and a start in left field.  He blasted a 2-0 pitch from Braves' starter Chris Sale to right field in the second inning for his first big league hit, run, home run and RBI.  It was a great moment in an otherwise forgettable game.  Reyes' first card can be found in the 2024 BlueClaws team set.

Transaction:  In a flurry of pre-game moves, Reyes (of) was selected from the IronPigs, Otto Kemp (of) was optioned down, Jhoan Duran (rhp) was placed on the injured list with a left oblique strain and Seth Johnson (rhp) was added back to the bullpen.  Pedro Leon (of) was released to make room for Reyes on the 40-man roster.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 19 - Yuck, Part II

Atlanta Braves	9
Philadelphia Phillies	0

1990 Bowman #147

Friday Night, April 17th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-11, 4th Place, 4 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies continued to play uncompetitive baseball in this 9-0 loss to the first place Braves.

What It Means:  The Phillies stink right now, and they own the worst run differential in the National League with a -34 mark.

What Happened:  Taijuan Walker's first inning woes continued.  He allowed two first inning runs and seven runs overall in four painfully long innings.  The bullpen contained things a little, but the Phillies couldn't muster any offense, managing six hits overall and  going 0 for 4 with runners in scoring position.  Bryce Harper had three of those hits, including a triple.

Featured Card:  The Phillies have lost three consecutive games at home by at least six or more runs for the first time since the awful 1989 season.  That happened May 16th, 17th and 19th in 13-5 and 6-0 losses to the Giants, followed by a 8-2 loss to the Padres.  Mike Schmidt would announce his retirement on May 29th, and blockbuster trades would follow in June, shipping out Chris James, Steve Bedroscian and Juan Samuel and bringing in John Kruk, Terry Mulholland and Lenny Dykstra, among others.  Maybe a blockbuster trade is what the 2026 Phillies need now?

Ken Howell was battered in the second game in that 1989 streak, allowing six runs on five hits and four walks over four innings of work.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 18 - Yuck

Chicago Cubs	11
Philadelphia Phillies	2

1969 Topps #477

Wednesday Night, April 15th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-10, Tied for 3rd Place, 3 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  In maybe the worst loss of the year, the Phillies lost ugly with lifeless at-bats and ineffective pitching in this 11-2 drubbing.

What It Means:  Yuck.

What Happened:  Both teams wore blue #42 on their jersey backs, as part of the annual Jackie Robinson Day celebration.  The Phillies book-ended this game with solo home runs in the first from Trea Turner and the in the ninth from Bryce Harper, with nothing remotely exciting happening in the seven innings in-between.  Jesus Luzardo continued his struggles, getting hit hard and earning his third loss with an ugly pitching line - 5 1/3 innings, 12 hits, 9 runs, 8 earned, a walk and a wild pitch.  His ERA shout up to 7.94.  Utility player Dylan Moore pitched in his second game of the season, allowing a run.

Featured Card:  Jeff James doesn't like what he's seeing.  My work schedule and life have conspired to keep me away from my other blogs chronicling my set building of the 1969 Topps and 1955 Bowman sets.  I'll get back to the them soon, especially if further distractions are needed based on the way the Phillies have been playing recently.

Field Report:  Jenna and I sat through most of this game from our perch in Section 207 with our friends from ALS United Mid-Atlantic.  The pre-game appetizers from Pass & Stow and the late game funnel cake were highlights.

Transaction:  Zach Pop (rhp) landed on the injured list with a right calf strain and Kyle Backhus (lhp) rejoined the bullpen.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 17 - Cubs Thrash Phils, Bullpen

Chicago Cubs	10
Philadelphia Phillies	4

2025 Choice Reading Fightin
Phils (Series 3) #21

Tuesday Night, April 14th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-9, Tied for 3rd Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Aaron Nola, Tim Mayza and Tanner Banks each allowed at least three runs and the Phillies couldn't come up with many clutch hits in this 10-4 loss.

What It Means:  The Phillies are not fun to watch right now.  Not even a little.

What Happened:  Edmundo Sosa hit a three-run home run in the second, and then once again, the Phillies offense pretty much shut down for the remainder of the evening.  They did push across a fourth run in the eighth inning when Sosa doubled and Trea Turner singled him home.  Nola left after five innings, having allowed three runs on eight hits (no home runs!) while striking out five.  The to-this-point-reliable Mayza imploded in the sixth, allowing four runs (three earned) on just one hit, a hit batter and a pair of walks.  Mayza took the loss.  Banks gave up a three-run home run to Carson Kelly in the top of the ninth, putting the game out of reach.

Featured Card:  Former top prospect Griff McGarry (rhp) left the organization for a second time this year as he was dealt to the Dodgers for international bonus pool money.  McGarry had been selected by the Nationals in the rule 5 draft and returned to the Phillies following spring training.

Transaction:  In addition to the McGarry deal, Chase Shugart (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley and Seth Johnson (rhp) was sent back down.  Shugart fared well in his Phillies debut, pitching two scoreless innings.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 16 - Schwarbombs x 2 Leads to Big Win Over Cubs

Chicago Cubs	7
Philadelphia Phillies	13

2026 Topps 1991 Topps Baseball
35th Anniversary #T91-5

Monday Night, April 13th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
8-8, 3rd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Kyle Schwarber blasted a pair of home runs in this much-needed slugfest of a win, 13-7 over the Cubs.

What It Means:  This was to be the be the last exciting/good baseball the Phillies would play for at least the next three games.

What Happened:  Everybody who hadn't been hitting in the Phillies line-up collected at least one hit in this game, with the exception of Justin Crawford, who had been hitting well.  The rookie went 0 for 5 with a pair of strikeouts.  Schwarber hit home runs #5 and #6.  Brandon Marsh was 3 for 4 with a double and two RBIs.  J.T. Realmuto was 3 for 5 with three RBIs, and even Alec Bohm had a hit and a pair of RBIs.  Cristopher Sanchez was the beneficiary of the run support, allowing two runs on a two-run home run to Dansby Swanson in the fourth and striking out eight.  This game should have been more of a laugher, but Seth Johnson gave up five runs (three earned) in a lengthy eighth inning.

Featured Card:  I'm happy to keep featuring Schwarber cards, as long as he keeps hitting home runs.  This is his 1991 Topps-inspired card, with an unnecessarily long name, from an insert set found within packs of 2026 Topps Series One.

Transaction:  Jonathan Bowlan (rhp) was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right groin strain and Johnson (rhp) was recalled to take his place in the bullpen.

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Atlanta Braves at Philadelphia Phillies: Phils Need to Get Going

2006 Topps #438

2026 Chachi 2006 Topps Missing Links #12

Friday, April 17th - 6:40
Saturday, April 18th - 7:15
Sunday, April 19th - 7:20

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
There's a Jordan Davis postgame concert tonight following the game.  On Saturday, all kids 14 and under will receive a Trea Turner replica jersey.

Atlanta Braves 12-7
1st Place in the N.L. East, 3 games ahead of the Marlins and Nationals

Braves Probables
Martin Perez (0-1, 3.14)
Chris Sale (3-1, 3.27)
Grant Holmes (1-1, 3.32)

Braves Leaders
Average:  Mauricio Dubon - .333
Runs:  Drake Baldwin - 19
Home Runs:  Drake Baldwin and Matt Olson - 5
RBIs:  Drake Baldwin - 19
Stolen Bases:  Ronald Acuna - 4

Wins:  Chris Sale - 3
ERA:  Bryce Elder - 0.77

Strikeouts:  Bryce Elder - 23
Saves:  Raisel Iglesias - 4

Philadelphia Phillies 8-10
4th Place in the N.L. East, 3 1/2 games behind the Braves

Phillies Probables
Taijuan Walker (1-2, 7.36)
Cristopher Sanchez (2-1, 2.01)
Andrew Painter (1-0, 3.77)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Brandon Marsh - .290
Runs:  Trea Turner - 13
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 6
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 12
Stolen Bases:  Bryson Stott - 4

Wins:  Cristopher Sanchez - 2
ERA:  Cristopher Sanchez - 2.01

Strikeouts:  Cristopher Sanchez - 31
Saves:  Jhoan Duran - 5

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Chicago Cubs at Philadelphia Phillies: Need Some Hits!

2006 Topps #531

2006 Topps #97

Monday, April 13th - 6:40
Tuesday, April 14th - 6:40
Wednesday, April 15th - 6:40

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
It's a hot dog BOGO night tonight at the ballpark and Wednesday is the annual Jackie Robinson Day celebration.

Chicago Cubs 7-8
5th Place in the N.L. Central, 2 games behind the Pirates

Cubs Probables
Javier Assad (1-0, 0.00)
Colin Rea (1-0, 3.18)
Shota Imanaga (0-1, 2.81)

Cubs Leaders
Average:  Nico Hoerner - .316
Runs:  Dansby Swanson - 11
Home Runs:  Ian Happ - 4
RBIs:  Nico Hoerner - 10
Stolen Bases:  Nico Hoerner - 5

Wins:  Seven tied with - 1
ERA:  Edward Cabrera - 1.62

Strikeouts:  Shota Imanaga - 20
Saves:  Daniel Palencia and Colin Rea - 1

Philadelphia Phillies 7-8
Tied for 3rd Place in the N.L. East, 2 1/2 games behind the Braves

Phillies Probables
Cristopher Sanchez (1-1, 1.65)
Aaron Nola (1-1, 3.63)
Jesus Luzardo (1-2, 6.23)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Justin Crawford - .341
Runs:  Trea Turner - 11
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 4
RBIs:  Bryce Harper - 10
Stolen Bases:  Bryson Stott - 4

Wins:  Seven tied with - 1
ERA:  Cristopher Sanchez - 1.65

Strikeouts:  Jesus Luzardo - 26
Saves:  Jhoan Duran - 5

2026 Virtual Phillies Wall (Coming Soon) / 2026 Season Summary Index / 2026 Chachi Set Checklist

Game 15 - Pop, Painter Shine, but Offense Falls Short Again

Arizona Diamondbacks	4
Philadelphia Phillies	3

2025 Topps Mascots #M-18

Sunday Afternoon, April 12th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
7-8, Tied for 3rd Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Despite gutsy pitching performances from Zach Pop and Andrew Painter, the Phillies couldn't hold on to a slim lead, dropping this series finale, and the series, to the Diamondbacks.

What It Means:  The Phillies played 27 innings over the weekend, scoring runs in just three of them.  We enjoyed (?) most of this game while celebrating my father-in-law's 80th birthday, surrounded by family.

What Happened:  Pop got the emergency start when Painter came down with a migraine prior to first pitch.  Pop would allow a run on three hits in his two innings before Painter recovered enough to enter in the third.  Painter allowed a run on three hits in five innings of relief, striking out seven.  Jose Alvarado's troubles continued as he allowed the Diamondbacks to take a 4-3 lead in the eighth.  Despite having runners on first and third and no outs in the bottom of the eighth, the Phillies couldn't tie it up, largely due to a huge base running blunder from Brandon Marsh.  Questionable base running was a recurring theme for the Phillies throughout the game.

The offense came to life for one inning only, scoring three in the sixth.  Justin Crawford doubled and Trea Turner hit a home run that just cleared the right field wall.  Kyle Schwarber followed with a double and Bryce Harper doubled him home.  That was it for the offense.  Alec Bohm went 0 for 3 as his average for the season dropped to .148.

Featured Card:  It was the Phanatic's birthday yesterday too, and sadly the Phillies couldn't give him a win.

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Game 14 - Schwarber, Harper Homer in Win Over Snakes

Arizona Diamondbacks	3
Philadelphia Phillies	4

2026 Topps Heritage #159

Saturday Afternoon, April 11th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
7-7, 3rd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Home runs from Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper along with a strong pitching performance from Taijuan Walker and the bullpen led to this 4-3 win.

What It Means:  This was to be the only win for the weekend against the Diamondbacks.

What Happened:  Walker's first inning was atrocious, as the Diamondbacks held a 2-0 lead not more than five minutes following first pitch.  Ketel Marie led off with a solo home run, Corbin Carroll walked and Adrian Del Castillo would single Carroll home.  As has been the case recently, the Phillies did all their scoring in one inning.  In the bottom of the third, Alec Bohm reached on an error and Justin Crawford singled before Schwarber connected for his fourth home run of the year.  Harper followed that with a home run of his own into the bullpen.  That was it for the Phillies' offense, but thankfully Walker calmed down and other than a shaky inning from Brad Keller, the bullpen did its job.  Jhoan Duran recorded his fifth save of the season.

Featured Card:  Here's Schwarber's card from the 1977 Topps-inspired Topps Heritage set.

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Game 13 - Phils Lose After Shutting it Down After 1st Inning

Arizona Diamondbacks	5
Philadelphia Phillies	4

2023 Philadelphia Phillies Photocards

Friday Night, April 10th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
6-7, 4th Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies wasted a four-run first inning and Jesus Luzardo imploded in the fifth in this 5-4 series-opening loss to the Diamondbacks.

What It Means:  The Phillies continue to have one big inning and then shut things down for multiple innings in a row.

What Happened:  The offense quickly jumped all over Diamondbacks' starter Michael Soroka in the first inning, when Trea Turner singled, Kyle Scwarber walked, Bryce Harper doubled home Turner and Brandon Marsh connected for a three-run home run.  All was right with the world.  

Problem was, the offense had four more hits the rest of the game, and didn't score again.  Luzardo was brilliant through the first four innings, and hadn't allowed a hit.  The Diamondbacks figured something out in the fifth, getting to him for five runs on five hits and three walks.  The big blow, giving the Diamondbacks the lead, was a two-run double from James McCann, chasing Luzardo from the game.  The two biggest bats struggling right now are Alec Bohm (.170) and Adolis Garcia (.229).

Featured Card:  Maybe current Diamondbacks' pitching coach Brian Kaplan tipped off his pitchers on the Phillies' offensive weaknesses?  Kaplan was the assistant pitching coach for the Phillies for three seasons between 2022 and 2024 before taking the job in Arizona.  This is his somewhat rare team-issued photo card from 2023 that was never actually released to the public.

Field Report:  Jenna and I had our first pre-game Bull's BBQ meal of the season and enjoyed the first inning from the surprisingly empty Diamond Club Section C.  Little did we know the only enjoyment we'd get from this game was in the first 10 minutes.

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Arizona Diamondbacks at Philadelphia Phillies: Phils Look to Heat Up

2006 Topps #418

2026 Chachi 2006 Topps Missing Links #5

Friday, April 10th - 6:40
Saturday, April 11th - 1:05
Sunday, April 12th - 1:35

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
On Saturday, all kids will receive a Phillies hooded sweatshirt.  And it's the Phanatic's birthday on Sunday with kids getting a cool-looking Colonial Phanatic bobble head.

Arizona Diamondbacks 7-6
Tied for 2nd Place in the N.L. West, 2 1/2 games behind the Dodgers

Diamondbacks Probables
Michael Soroka (2-0, 0.90)
Brandon Pfaadt (0-0, 6.75)
Zac Gallen (1-1, 3.00)

Diamondbacks Leaders
Average:  Corbin Carroll - .333
Runs:  Corbin Carroll - 9
Home Runs:  Corbin Carroll and Jose Fernandez - 2
RBIs:  Corbin Carroll - 11
Stolen Bases:  Geraldo Perdomo and Alek Thomas - 2

Wins:  Michael Soroka - 2
ERA:  Eduardo Rodrigez - 0.50

Strikeouts:  Michael Soroka - 13
Saves:  Paul Sewald - 3

Philadelphia Phillies 6-6
4th Place in the N.L. East, 1 1/2 games behind the Braves and Marlins

Phillies Probables
Jesus Luzardo (1-1, 4.97)
Taijuan Walker (0-2, 9.31)
Andrew Painter (1-0, 4.82)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Justin Crawford - .306
Runs:  Trea Turner - 9
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 3
RBIs:  Alec Bohm - 8
Stolen Bases:  Bryson Stott - 2

Wins:  Six tied with - 1
ERA:  Cristopher Sanchez - 1.65

Strikeouts:  Cristopher Sanchez - 23
Saves:  Jhoan Duran - 4

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Game 12 - Offense Racks Up 20 Innings with Zero Runs Scored

Philadelphia Phillies	0
San Francisco Giants	5

2008 Philadelphia Phillies Photocards

Wednesday Afternoon, April 8th

Oracle Park - San Francisco, CA
6-6, 4th Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies offense continued to snooze in San Francisco and Aaron Nola allowed a three-run home run to Rafael Devers in the seventh in this 5-0 series-ending loss.

What It Means:  Yikes.  The bats are ice cold.  Following an off-day on Thursday, the Phillies open up a nine-game homestead against the Diamondbacks, Cubs and Braves.

What Happened:  This was a 0-0 game heading to the bottom of the sixth, and Nola had authored a strong outing up until that point.  Willy Adames doubled and Luis Arraez walked before Devers hit his blast, giving the Giants a 3-0 lead.  Jose Alvarado was a mess, allowing two more runs in the eighth.  One of those runs was unearned due to Alvarado's own throwing error.  The offense had four singles, including an infield hit, and went 0 for 5 with runners in scoring position.

Featured Card:  I was sad to learn about the passing of Davey Lopes yesterday.  Famous for his play with the Dodgers dynasties in the 1970s and early 1980s, Lopes was the Phillies' first base coach between 2007 and 2010.  I don't know how you'd determine this, but Lopes might be the best first base coach in the team's history.  He worked with Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Chase Utley and many others to vastly improve the team's base running game, and he was a huge part of the Phillies' dynasty during those magical years.  He appeared in five team-issued photo card sets during his years with the team.

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Game 11 - Phils Look Awful in Loss to Giants

Philadelphia Phillies	0
San Francisco Giants	6

2026 Topps Heritage #357

Late Tuesday Night, April 7th

Oracle Park - San Francisco, CA
6-5, Tied for 3rd Place, 1 game behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies dropped a sloppily played ballgame, 6-0 to the Giants, managing four hits in a late night defeat.

What It Means:  West Coast road trips seem to be kryptonite for this team, and I question my sanity every time I decide to stay up late (or later) and watch lackluster baseball.

What Happened:  Cristopher Sanchez was hit early and often, allowing four runs (two earned) over five innings, but giving up 11 hits.  Left field adventures from Otto Kemp, errors from Trea Turner and Rafael Marchan and an offense that went 0 for 6 with runners in scoring position didn't help matters.  J.T. Realmuto departed the game early after fouling a ball off his foot.  Orion Kerkering made his season debut and ironically had the first batter he faced ground a ball back to him, which he wanted nothing to do with.  Giants' starter Robbie Ray baffled the righty-heavy line-up.

Featured Card:  New Giants' outfielder Harrison Bader is struggling mightily to start the season.  He entered this game as a pinch-hitter in the sixth and went 0 for 2 to drop his season average to .125.  Here's his card from the 2026 Topps Heritage set, commemorating his brief, but successful, stint with the Phillies last season.

Transaction:  In the first roster move of the season, Kerkering (rhp) was activated from the injured list and Kyle Backhus (lhp) was optioned to the IronPigs.

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