Game 22 - 2021 Topps Heritage #355 Zack Wheeler

Phillies 2, Cardinals 1
Game 22 - Monday Night, April 26th in St. Louis
Record - 11-11, 2nd Place, 1/2 game behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Zack Wheeler dominated the Cardinals for eight innings and Rhys Hoskins hit two more home runs in this 2-1 series opening win.

What It Means:  Hoskins has eight home runs, which leads the major leagues.

What Happened:  Wheeler allowed one hit in his outing while walking three and striking out nine.  Hector Neris allowed an inherited runner to score, but then shut down the Cardinals to secure his fourth save.  Wheeler out dueled Adam Wainwright who pitched all nine innings, striking out eight.  J.T. Realmuto had three of the Phillies' six hits.

Featured Card:  I'm going to quickly run out of Wheeler cards to feature if he continues to pitch like this.  He's got three baseball cards so far in 2021 - this Topps Heritage card, a Donruss card and a Topps Now card from his one-hitter against the Braves on April 3rd.

Transactions:  Before the game, Jose Alvarado (lhp) and Matt Moore (lhp) were both activated from the injured list (Covid protocols) and Odubel Herrera (of) had his contract selected.  Herrera batted seventh, started in center field, and went 0 for 3 in his first Phillies game since May 26, 2019.  He's been absent the past two years following his arrest and subsequent suspension for domestic abuse.  Bailey Falter (lhp), Spencer Howard (rhp) and Mickey Moniak (of) were all optioned to Lehigh Valley.

2021 Virtual Phillies Wall / 2021 Season Summary Index / 2021 Chachi Set Checklist