From PhillyVoice · · 2m
Phillies pitching staff chaos in season-ending loss
Phillies' pitching staff collapse leads to season-ending loss in NL Wild Card Series Game 3.
In brief
Phillies' pitching staff collapse leads to season-ending loss in NL Wild Card Series Game 3. Phillies lost 6-2 to Braves in Game 3 of NL Wild Card Series after pitching staff chaos, ending season with $217m contracts locked in for 2027. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
Phillies season ends
The Phillies lasted one day into October after a 6-2 loss to the Braves in Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series.
Pitching staff chaos
The Phillies' pitching staff was a total mess with two starters on short rest in a 6-2 loss to the Braves.
Aaron Nola struggles
Aaron Nola issued walks to Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson before Michael Harris hit a homer in the first inning.
Nola's poor performance
Nola's last outing was one inning with three runs, and he was pulled after one inning.
Zack Wheeler's role
Zack Wheeler started Sunday and entered Thursday on three days rest for the first time ever.
Wheeler's performance
Wheeler battled through 68 pitches and scattered walks but was shaky on short rest.
Bullpen issues
The Phillies' bullpen was in disarray with Jonathan Bowlan giving up a homer to Matt Olson after Wheeler left.
Chris Sale strikeout
Chris Sale struck out Bryce Harper without throwing a single pitch in the strike zone.
Ray Kerr's performance
Braves 'opener' Ray Kerr pitched 3.1 innings with a 3-0 lead before handing the ball off to Grant Holmes.
Historical context
Philadelphia has not won a win-or-go-home game since the 1980 NLCS.
Season ending
The season ended with Otto Kemp pinch hitting for the Phillies.
Financial impact
The Phillies have $217 million locked into contracts for 2027.
Future outlook
The Phillies need a complete bullpen overhaul and outfield transfusion for next season.
Key players
Kyle Schwarber had two hits and a home run during the series, while Derek Hill hit a leadoff triple.
The takeaway
Phillies lost 6-2 to Braves in Game 3 of NL Wild Card Series after pitching staff chaos, ending season with $217m contracts locked in for 2027.
