Phillies Fall in Series Finale
Philadelphia was hoping to get a series sweep against the Washington Nationals, even though Trea Turner and J.T. Realmuto were both out of the lineup, however Washington got strong starting, and the Phillies could not capitalize in key situations, as the Phillies defeated the Washington Nationals, 5-1 at Nationals Park.
Washington, for the third straight game, scored first in the 4th inning. Keibert Ruiz, was hit by Aaron Nola with two outs, then, after a single by Nathaniel Lowe, designated hitter and Phillie killer, Josh Bell, hit a first pitch fastball right down the middle, and crushed it over the center field wall to give the Nationals, a 3-0 lead.
In the bottom of the 6th, it was the Nationals again, adding on to the lead. It was Ruiz again, who hurt the Phillies all weekend, getting a one-out single, then first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, on the seventh pitch, took a low fastball over the plate, and hit it over the center field wall for his second home run of the year, and giving the Nationals a 5-0 lead.
Philadelphia did score a run in the ninth inning, courtesy of a fielder’s choice by Rafael Marchan. The bigger issue for the Phillies bats on Sunday, which you could not miss, was leaving 10 runners on base, and were 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position.
The star of today’s game, was Washington’s starting pitcher, Mitchell Parker, who was outstanding on Sunday. He went 6 1/3 innings, and allowing 7 seven hits, no runs and striking out five. In fact, Parker threw 93 pitches today, and only 29 of them were balls.
As for the pitching, today was not a good debut for Nola. Yes, he struck out eight batters, but he only went 5 1/3 innings, as he threw 95 pitches, and allowed five runs on 6 hits, and allowing two home runs. The bullpen today, consisting of Jose Ruiz, Matt Strahm and Tanner Banks were fine, as they allowed only three hits in 2 2/3 innings, while striking out three.
Philadelphia’s next game will be the home opener on Monday, weather permitting, as Cristopher Sanchez will make his first start against German Marquez and the Colorado Rockies. The first pitch is scheduled for 3:05 p.m.
Also, Phillies beat writer, Todd Zolecki, reported after the game that Turner will not start tomorrow, as he continues to deal with his back. But, Realmuto should play.
-David Weightman/ Olde City Sports Network