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Saturday, March 30, 2024

Game 1 - Phils' Bullpen Can't Preserve Win for Wheeler

2024 Topps #71
Braves 9
, Phillies 3
Game 1 - Friday Afternoon, March 29th in Philadelphia
Record - 0-1, Tied for 2nd Place, 1 game behind the Braves

One Sentence Summary:  Zack Wheeler was ace-like, but a lack of Phillies offense and miserable outings from three relievers led to this 9-3 loss to the Braves.

What It Means:  For the second opening day in a row, the Phillies suffered through a pitching meltdown, leading to a loss.  Last year, it was Aaron Nola, Gregory Soto and Connor Brogdon who allowed nine Rangers runs in the fourth inning in Arlington.

We originally had tickets to this game, but the weather and high school baseball happenings ruined our chances of going.  Not counting the 2020 season, this was the first Phillies home opener I've missed since the 2014 season.  I'm planning on starting my next home opener streak in 2025.  We watched some of the pregame ceremonies on TV, at least what was broadcast, with the best highlight being Charlie Manual throwing out the first pitch to his catcher, Larry Bowa.  Manuel had suffered a stroke during the offseason.

What Happened:  Wheeler and Spencer Strider delivered a pitcher's dual, with Wheeler departing after six innings after protecting the Phillies 2-0 lead.  Wheeler allowed five hits and struck out five and was on his way to his first win of the season if not for Matt Strahm, Jose Alvarado and Brogdon.  Those three relievers combined to allow all nine Braves runs in 1 1/3 innings, on seven hits and three walks.  Alvarado was hit particularly hard, earning the loss and starting his 2024 season with an unsightly 67.50 ERA.

Featured Card:  Brandon Marsh provided the offensive excitement for the Phillies, hitting a two-run home run in the fifth after Bryson Stott had singled to start the inning.  This is Marsh's base card from Topps Series One.

Transactions:  On Thursday, the Phillies whittled down their active roster from 31 to 26 by placing five players on the injured list - Dylan Covey (rhp), Orion Kerkering (rhp), Rafael Marchan (c), Michael Rucker (rhp) and Taijuan Walker (rhp).

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