Bryce Harper and the Philadelphia Phillies secured their spot in the playoffs for the third consecutive year with a dominant 12-2 victory over the New York Mets in New York.
With a guaranteed berth in the National League wild card, the Phillies are now focused on clinching their first NL East title since 2011. They have the opportunity to do so with just one more win over the Mets this weekend at Citi Field.
Following Friday night’s game, the Phillies planned a low-key celebration, saving the big festivities for when they secure first place. The team is looking forward to a lively clubhouse party once they clinch the division crown, which they have been leading since May 3, overtaking Atlanta.
Currently boasting the best record in the major leagues at 92-62, the Phillies are on track for a first-round bye in the playoffs. This marks their third consecutive postseason appearance, a feat they last achieved during 1976-78 and 2007-11.
Key players like Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Alec Bohm, Trea Turner, and Nick Castellanos have been driving the team’s offense, while pitchers Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, and Cristopher Sánchez have been solidifying the pitching staff.
After a decade-long playoff drought, the Phillies are determined to make a deep postseason run this year. They made it to the World Series in 2022, only to fall to the Houston Astros, and came close to the NLCS victory last year against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Looking to add to their two World Series championships in 1980 and 2008, the Phillies are aiming to go all the way this season and bring home another title.
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