Game 66 - Phils Use Small Ball, Solid Effort from Wheeler in Win

Chicago Cubs	3
Philadelphia Phillies	4

11 Innings

2025 Topps Now #277

Monday Night, June 9th

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
38-28, 2nd Place, 4 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Otto Kemp had three hits, including a key ninth inning bunt hit, and Zack Wheeler struck out seven as the Phillies walked off with a 4-3 win over the Cubs in 11 innings.

What It Means:  The five-game losing streak ended, but unfortunately this new winning streak would be short-lived.

What Happened:  Wheeler got a no decision, but he kept his team in the game with six strong innings, allowing a first inning solo home run to Kyle Tucker and two other hits.  The Phillies took a 2-1 lead in the fifth on a Weston Wilson RBI single, scoring Kemp.  Matt Strahm entered the game in the eighth and promptly allowed a solo home run to Ian Happ to tie the score at 2-2.  The Cubs briefly took the lead in the top of the 11th, but in the bottom of the inning, J.T. Realmuto singled home ghost runner Nick Castellanos to tie the score at 3-3.  Bryson Stott and Kemp both bunted for hits, loading the bases, and Brandon Marsh singled home Realmuto with the winning run.  Along with Stott's and Kemp's bunt base hits, Johan Rojas contributed two sacrifices.

Featured Card:  Kemp and Wheeler both received Topps Now cards for this game.  Kemp for his three-hit performance and Wheeler for becoming the fastest Phillies pitcher in franchise history to strike out 1,000 batters.  I'll go with the Kemp card here.

2025 Philadelphia Phillies Photocards

Field Report:  We were there, and it was great to pay tribute and celebrate the patients, caregivers and families affected by ALS.  The Phillies have partnered with ALS United Mid-Atlantic for over 40 years at this point, and with the help of the family-owned Asplundh company, $800,004 was raised to help with ALS research and care services.  Grab bags were once again sold before the game, and my family and I came away with a nice haul.  Highlights from our bags were signed balls from Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos, along with a signed hat from J.T. Realmuto.

The Phillies again produced a whole set of photo cards to be included in the grab bags as an identifier for the autographed item.  I learned from the team last year their contract with Fanatics precludes them from selling these sets at the ballpark, which is a real shame.  High quality cards are produced for the sole purpose of identifying autographs and then they're either left languishing on a shelf in a closet at the ballpark or thrown away.  As I've done the last few years, I'm trying to build a complete set checklist over at the TCDB.

Transaction:  Wheeler (rhp) was activated from the paternity list and Daniel Robert (rhp) was optioned back to Lehigh Valley.

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Chicago Cubs at Philadelphia Phillies - Phils Limp Home

2005 Topps Retired Signature #25

2005 Topps #64

Monday, June 9th - 6:45
Tuesday, June 10th - 6:45
Wednesday, June 11th - 1:05

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
Tonight is ALS Awareness Night, recognizing patients, families and caregivers battling this disease.  Following Wednesday afternoon's game, fans 55 and over are invited onto the field to stroll the bases.

Chicago Cubs 40-25
1st Place in the N.L. Central, 4 games ahead of the Cardinals

Cubs Probables
Matthew Boyd (5-3, 3.01)
Colin Rea (4-2, 3.59)
Ben Brown (3-4, 5.37)

Cubs Leaders
Average:  Nico Hoerner - .286
Runs:  Pete Crow-Armstrong - 50
Home Runs:  Pete Crow-Armstrong - 17
RBIs:  Seiya Suzuki - 55
Stolen Bases:  Pete Crow-Armstrong - 21

Wins:  Jameson Taillon - 6
ERA:  Matthew Boyd - 3.01

Strikeouts:  Ben Brown - 78
Saves:  Daniel Palencia - 5

Philadelphia Phillies 37-28
2nd Place in the N.L. East, 4 1/2 games behind the Mets

Phillies Probables
Zack Wheeler (6-2, 2.96)
Mick Abel (1-0, 0.79)
Jesus Luzardo (5-2, 4.46)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .300
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 45
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 20
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 46
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 17

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 6
ERA:  Zack Wheeler - 2.96
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 94
Saves:  Jordan Romano - 8

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Game 65 - Phils Swept Out of Pittsburgh

Philadelphia Phillies	1
Pittsburgh Pirates	2

2019 Topps Gallery
Heritage #HT-25

Sunday Afternoon, June 8th

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
37-28, 2nd Place, 4 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Paul Skenes made easy work of the scuffling Phillies offense and Cristopher Sanchez was the hardluck loser in this 2-1 loss to the Pirates.

What It Means:  The Phillies have lost nine of their last ten games, and they were swept by a not great Pirates team.  They've lost five games in a row, scoring just one run in four of those games.  They return home on Monday for three with the Cubs, followed by three more with the Blue Jays.

What Happened:  The Phillies managed a single run in this game when Brandon Marsh singled in the third and came around to score on Rafael Marchan's double to right, coupled with an error by Pirates' second baseman Nick Gonzales.  The only other hit from the Phillies was a double by Trea Turner in the ninth, but Alec Bohm grounded into a double play to end the threat and the ballgame.  Skenes was cruising and was oddly removed after 97 pitches, having given up the unearned run and striking out seven.  Sanchez just about matched him, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out nine.

Featured Card:  With the score tied at 1-1 in the bottom of the eighth, Oneil Cruz walked, stole second and scored on Andrew McCutchen's single to right.  Now in his 17th season, McCutchen is batting .255 with five home runs and 21 RBIs.

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Game 64 - Phils Looking for Answers as Losing Continues

Philadelphia Phillies	1
Pittsburgh Pirates	2

2023 Choice
Clearwater Threshers #13

Saturday Afternoon, June 7th

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
37-27, 2nd Place, 3 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  A lack of Phillies offense continued to be a troubling theme in this rapid-fire, 2-1 loss to the Pirates.

What It Means:  The Phillies have lost eight of their last nine games, and they'll attempt to avoid a sweep by the Pirates this afternoon.

What Happened:  Ranger Suarez was the hard luck loser, giving up a pair of runs on five hits in five innings of work.  The crushing blow was a solo home run from Henry Davis in the seventh inning.  Kyle Schwarber, the second batter of the game, hit a solo home run in the first, his 20th of the season.  The offense pretty much shut it down from there with only an Alec Bohm double in the top of the seventh generating any excitement.  With no outs, Bohm went to third on a wild pitch, but was stranded there after Nick Castellanos struck out, J.T. Realmuto popped up to shallow right and Bryson Stott flied out.

Featured Card:  Otto Kemp made his big league debut, starting at third base and batting seventh.  He went 0 for 3 with a pair of strikeouts, but made all his plays in the field.  Kemp was signed by the Phillies as an undrafted free agent in July 2022, and his hard work in the minors earned him a promotion.  He had been batting .313 with 14 home runs and 55 RBIs at Lehigh Valley.  This is the first card of his in my collection, from the 2023 Clearwater Threshers team set.

Transaction:  In a flurry of roster moves before this game, Bryce Harper (1b) was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right wrist injury and Kemp (inf) had his contract selected from Lehigh Valley.  Alan Rangel (rhp) was sent back down, and Daniel Robert (rhp) came back up through the revolving bullpen door.  And Jose Ruiz (rhp) was claimed off waivers by the Braves.

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Game 63 - Bullpen Falters in Loss to Bucs

Philadelphia Phillies	4
Pittsburgh Pirates	5

2025 Choice Lehigh Valley
IronPigs #38

Friday Night, June 6th

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
37-26, 2nd Place, 2 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The offense continued to look for clutch hits and Jordan Romano once again failed to pitch a clean ninth inning in this series-opening 5-4 loss to the last place Pirates.

What It Means:  The bullpen is a huge problem, and Romano is not the answer as the team's closer.  The Phillies have lost three in a row.

What Happened:  A bullpen game from the outset with Zack Wheeler out on paternity leave, Joe Ross and four relievers did their best to hold the Pirates at bay in what was a back and forth game from the first inning onwards.  In each top of the inning where the Phillies scored, taking a lead, the Pirates would tie the game in the bottom of the inning.  This happened in the first, third and fourth innings, with the Pirates breaking through for the winning, walk-off run off Romano in the ninth.  

Trea Turner had a big day at the plate, going 3 for 5 with a double and two RBIs.  Bailey Falter started for the Pirates and was chased from the game in the fourth inning.

Featured Card:  Alan Rangel made his big league debut, pitching three innings in relief and allowing a two-run home run to Henry Davis in the fourth.  Rangel had spent 9 1/2 seasons in the minors before getting the call from the Phillies, and he has a card in this year's IronPigs team set.

Transaction:  In need of bullpen reinforcements, Rangel (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley and Seth Johnson (rhp) was optioned back down.  Additionally, the Phillies resigned Jose Rodriguez (inf) to a minor league contract after he had been activated from the restricted list and non-tendered a few days ago.

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Philadelphia Phillies at Pittsburgh Pirates - Phils Need Some Wins

2005 Topps #312

2005 Topps #551

Friday, June 6th - 6:40
Saturday, June 7th - 4:05
Sunday, June 8th - 1:35

PNC Park - Pittsburgh, PA
The Pirates will host their annual Pride Night tonight with the first 10,000 fans receiving a Pirates x Progress PRIDE mini pennant.  On Sunday, all kids will be able to receive a free Smiley Cookie.  (Not sure what that is, but a free cookie is a win.)

Philadelphia Phillies 37-25
2nd Place in the N.L. East, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

Phillies Probables
Joe Ross (2-1, 4.34)
Ranger Suarez (4-0, 2.72)
Cristopher Sanchez (5-1, 3.15)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .300
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 44
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 19
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 45
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 16

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 6
ERA:  Zack Wheeler - 2.96
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 94
Saves:  Jordan Romano - 8

Pittsburgh Pirates 23-40
5th Place in the N.L. Central, 16 1/2 games behind the Cubs

Pirates Probables
Bailey Falter (4-3, 3.14)
Andrew Heaney (3-4, 3.39)
Paul Skenes (4-6, 2.05)

Pirates Leaders
Average:  Andrew McCutchen - .249
Runs:  Oneil Cruz - 35
Home Runs:  Oneil Cruz - 12
RBIs:  Bryan Reynolds - 34
Stolen Bases:  Oneil Cruz - 22

Wins:  Bailey Falter and Paul Skenes - 4
ERA:  Paul Skenes - 2.05

Strikeouts:  Paul Skenes - 85
Saves:  David Bednar - 7

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Game 62 - What's Wrong with Luzardo?

Philadelphia Phillies	1
Toronto Blue Jays	9

2024 Topps #86

Thursday Afternoon, June 5th

Rogers Centre - Toronto, Ontario
37-25, 2nd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  Jesus Luzardo was shelled in his second consecutive start and the Phillies offense was once again quiet in this 9-1 loss to the Blue Jays.

What It Means:  As pointed out by Matt Gelb, the Phillies scored six runs on Tuesday night in the first inning and then only four more runs for the rest of the series.  They'll open up a weekend series in Pittsburgh tonight against the last place Pirates.

What Happened:  Luzardo couldn't escape the third inning.  His final line - 2 1/3 innings, eight runs on nine hits, two walks and two strikeouts.  Weston Wilson was again called upon to pitch and threw a scoreless eighth inning.  Nick Castellanos was 3 for 3, with the rest of the line-up accounting for two more hits on the day.  They pushed across a run in the sixth on a Kyle Schwarber RBI single.

Featured Card / Transaction:  Jose Rodriguez (inf) suspended for a year due to gambling, was reinstated from the restricted list and non-tendered, becoming a free agent.  Rodriguez came to the Phillies last April when his contract was purchased from the White Sox.  He played in 38 games for Reading before the suspension was handed down, and I've been seeing his name for the past year on the team's roster.  With no other deserving choices for this game, here's Rodriguez's rookie card, marking his one game with the White Sox in 2023.

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Game 61 - Hoffman Over Romano in Battle of Closers

Philadelphia Phillies	1
Toronto Blue Jays	2

2024 Philadelphia Phillies Photocards

Wednesday Night, June 4th

Rogers Centre - Toronto, Ontario
37-24, 2nd Place, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies offense was quiet, and Jordan Romano couldn't shut down his former team as the Blue Jays walked it off with a 2-1 win.

What It Means:  The rubber match of this three-game series is this afternoon, and then the Phillies head to Pittsburgh for a weekend set.

What Happened:  Mick Abel returned to the majors for his second start, allowing a run on three hits in 5 1/3 innings.  The Blue Jays' first run came in the sixth on an RBI-triple from Bo Bichette, chasing Abel from the game.  Nick Castellanos had hit a solo home run in the second to give the Phillies a 1-0 lead.  

Other than Casty's homer, the line-up managed four singles, including Alec Bohm's single to greet Blue Jays' closer Jeff Hoffman in the top ninth.  Bohm would be stranded and Romano entered to try to shut the Blue Jays down in the bottom of the ninth.  Vladimir Guerrero, Jr. singled, stole second and scored the winning run on a long single from Alejandro Kirk.

Featured Card:  Hoffman is 5-2 this year with a 5.74 ERA in 26 2/3 innings pitched.  He has 13 saves in 16 opportunities.  Romano is 0-2 this year with a 7.54 ERA in 22 2/3 innings pitched.  The Phillies' new closer has eight saves in 10 opportunities.  I know the price tag was high ($33 million over 3 years) but I'd rather have Hoffman in the back-end of the bullpen than Romano.

Transaction:  Abel (rhp) was recalled from Lehigh Valley for the start, and Zack Wheeler (rhp) was placed on the paternity list.

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Game 60 - Turner, Harper Power Phils Over Jays

Philadelphia Phillies	8
Toronto Blue Jays	3

2025 Philadelphia Phillies
Kids Club/Club 215

Tuesday Night, June 3rd

Rogers Centre - Toronto, Ontario
37-23, 2nd Place, 1/2 game behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies plated six first inning runs, highlighted by back-to-back home runs from Trea Turner and Bryce Harper, in this 8-3 win over the Blue Jays.

What It Means:  The four-game losing streak is over, Harper is back in the line-up, and the Phillies hope to start a new and lengthy winning streak.

What Happened:  The Phillies jumped on Blue Jays' starting pitcher Bowden Francis early, scoring seven runs in the first two innings.  Bryson Stott walked on four pitches to begin the game, with Turner then hitting his first home run of the night.  Harper, wearing a bulky guard over his bruised elbow, marked his return with his ninth home run following Turner's blast.  Additional runs scored on a Max Kepler RBI single and a two-run single from Stott, as the Phillies batted around.  Turner added a solo home run in the eighth.

Cristopher Sanchez was the beneficiary of the run support, picking up his fifth win.  The lefty allowed a run on four hits in his six innings of work.

Featured Card:  Turner went from being the goat in Sunday's loss to the hero in this victory.  To date, I've collected 10 of the 19 cards currently available at the ballpark as part of Kids Club/Club 215 membership, including this Turner card.

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Philadelphia Phillies at Toronto Blue Jays - Phils Look to End Losing Streak

2005 Topps #76

2025 Chachi Series Preview #4

Tuesday, June 3rd - 7:07
Wednesday, June 4th - 7:07
Thursday, June 5th - 3:07

Rogers Centre - Toronto, Ontario
The Blue Jays, unlike the Phillies, still have $1 hot dog nights and tonight is one of them.

Philadelphia Phillies 36-23
2nd Place in the N.L. East, 1 1/2 games behind the Mets

Phillies Probables
Cristopher Sanchez (4-1, 3.32)
Mick Abel (1-0, 0.00)
Jesus Luzardo (5-1, 3.58)

Phillies Leaders
Average:  Trea Turner - .299
Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 44
Home Runs:  Kyle Schwarber - 19
RBIs:  Kyle Schwarber - 44
Stolen Bases:  Trea Turner - 16

Wins:  Zack Wheeler - 6
ERA:  Zack Wheeler - 2.96
Strikeouts:  Zack Wheeler - 94
Saves:  Jordan Romano - 8

Toronto Blue Jays 31-28
2nd Place in the A.L. East,  5 1/2 games behind the Yankees

Blue Jays Probables
Bowden Francis (2-6, 5.04)
Jose Berrios (2-2, 3.86)
Chris Bassitt (5-3, 3.80)

Blue Jays Leaders
Average:  Alejandro Kirk - .301
Runs:  Vladimir Guerrero - 35
Home Runs:  Three tied with - 8
RBIs:  Bo Bichette - 32
Stolen Bases:  Andres Gimenez - 9

Wins:  Chris Bassitt and Kevin Gausman - 5
ERA:  Chris Bassitt - 3.80

Strikeouts:  Chris Bassitt - 69
Saves:  Jeff Hoffman - 13

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Game 59 - Punchless, Sloppy Phils Swept by Brew Crew

Milwaukee Brewers	5
Philadelphia Phillies	2

Sunday Afternoon, June 1st

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
36-23, 2nd Place, 1 game behind the Mets

One Sentence Summary:  The Phillies rolled over easily in this 5-2 defeat to the Brewers, getting swept at home for the first time this season.

What It Means:  With Bryce Harper missing his fifth straight game due to a bruised elbow, the Phillies' line-up had trouble piecing together meaningful hits.  They'll head to Toronto next to try to end their four-game losing streak.

What Happened:  Ranger Suarez had a solid outing, allowing two runs (one earned) in six innings, before yielding to the bullpen.  In the seventh, with the Phillies holding a 2-1 lead, Caleb Durbin doubled to left on a ball that should have been caught by Weston Wilson.  Orion Kerkering relieved Suarez, walked a batter, but recorded the first two outs of the inning.  With runners on the corners, Trea Turner booted a ground ball hit by William Contreras, allowing the Brewers to tie the score and prolong the inning.  Pinch-hitter Jake Bauers then doubled to right, scoring two more unearned runs for the Brewers.

Featured Card:  The Phillies gave the Brewers five outs in the seventh, with Turner's gaffe the ultimate heart-breaker.

Transaction:  In a much-need bullpen shake-up, Jose Ruiz (rhp) was designated for assignment and Seth Johnson (rhp) was recalled from the IronPigs.  Ruiz had an 8.16 ERA in 16 appearance and 14 1/3 innings pitched so far this season.  To date, he's not appeared on any Phillies baseball cards.

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Game 58 - Luzardo Shelled, Hoskins Homers Twice in Rout

Milwaukee Brewers	17
Philadelphia Phillies	7

2023 Topps Archives
1954 Topps Tarzan 3D #TZ3D-6

Saturday Afternoon, May 31st

Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
36-22, Tied for 1st Place, 8 games ahead of the Nationals

One Sentence Summary:  Jesus Luzardo suffered through the worst start of his career and Rhys Hoskins hit a pair of three-run home runs in this lopsided 17-7 defeat to the Brewers.

What It Means:  The Phillies will look to avoid a home sweep this afternoon, and their fourth loss in a row, with Ranger Suarez on the mound.

What Happened:  Luzardo lasted 3 1/3 innings and was charged with 12 runs on 12 hits, including home runs to Hoskins in the first and fourth innings.  His ERA went from 2.15 to 3.58 in a little over an hour.  Reliever Jose Ruiz gave up five more runs in the fifth, and utility player Weston Wilson stopped the bleeding with two shutout innings to close out the game.  The Phillies scored five runs in the bottom of the ninth, making the score slightly more respectable.  Johan Rojas had a two-run triple and Brandon Marsh hit a two-run home run before the game mercifully ended.

Featured Card:  In a sign of ultimate respect, cheers for Hoskins turned to boos following his home runs.  I wasn't aware this card existed until I was filling my cart during a recent COMC order, and as the name of the card suggests, it borrows the design from the 1954 Topps Tarzan set.

Field Report:  Jenna and I were enjoying the great spring weather at the ballpark until the Brewers started to quickly barrel up Luzardo.  Our enjoyment pivoted to working on an escape plan when the rains arrived in the fourth inning.  Our traditional pre-game meal was once again at Pass and Stow's.

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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:  Brice Turang - 36
Home Runs:  Christian Yelich - 10
RBIs:  Christian Yelich - 34
Stolen Bases:  Brice 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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