You witnessed it twice this week in Atlanta.
The Philadelphia Phillies, who were the MLB’s best team at the time, managed only three runs in two losses to the Braves, falling short in overcoming small deficits. Even in their lone win in the series, the Phillies scored just three runs and relied on their bullpen to secure the victory.
Now standing at 16-18 (.470 win %) in one-run games this season after their 3-2 defeat on Thursday, the Phillies boast a impressive 58-35 record in all other games (.624 win %).
Against the Braves, the Phillies’ top hitters Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Bryce Harper combined for a dismal 2-for-33 at the plate with 14 strikeouts. It was quite unexpected for all three star batters to struggle simultaneously in such a crucial series.
“We just need to get things going,” remarked Turner to the media on Thursday night. “It’s unusual for all of us to be struggling at the same time. Typically, in a solid lineup, a few guys may be off, but it’s strange that many of us are.”
However, it’s not just about the superstars. As famously exclaimed in this city by Eagles legend Jason Kelce, “it’s the whole damn team.”
The Phillies have had the fewest plate appearances while trailing in games this season by a large margin. They have been behind at the plate 1,380 times (with the Dodgers as the next closest at 1,534). Consequently, they have the fewest hits (274) and the fifth worst batting average (.222) in these situations among all MLB teams.
“At this point in the season, it’s crunch time,” remarked Turner. “We don’t feel pressured, just determined to play well. We know our capabilities and expect the best from ourselves.”
In late and close game situations, the Phillies are hitting .234, whereas they bat .259 when ahead and .285 when tied. This week, they hit into a few costly double plays at critical moments. To clinch the NL East title, as well as contend for the World Series, they must improve their performance in clutch situations.
Last season, the Phillies had the third-highest number of comeback wins with 44. This year, their 28 comeback wins place them in the middle of the pack. Notably, their bullpen, which struggled last year, has blown 30 leads in 2024, the fifth most in the league.
“It’s the whole damn team.”
The upcoming games will pose a tough challenge for the Phillies, starting with the playoff-bound Kansas City Royals. Following that, they face the Houston Astros, the reigning World Series champions, and the current leaders of the AL West. The Braves will also be back for a four-game series.
It is essential for the Phillies to maintain their six-game lead in the NL East before battling the Braves again next weekend. Otherwise, the landscape could drastically change as September approaches.
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