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Zack Wheeler, Phillies Aim to Get Back on Track vs. D-backs
As they continue their series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Philadelphia Phillies are determined to avoid repeating their season-worst three-game losing streak on Saturday. Having lost six of their beyond nine games, the Phillies have seen their once agreeable lead throughout the second-place Atlanta Conquers in the Public Association East psychologist to six games.
Recent Struggles and Series Overview
The Phillies’ recent downturn began with a 5-2 loss to the San Diego Padres on Wednesday, followed by a narrow 5-4 defeat to the Diamondbacks in the series opener on Friday. This marked Arizona’s third consecutive win in Philadelphia, dating back to their victories in the 2023 National League Championship Series.
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo expressed his satisfaction upon returning to Philadelphia, recalling the team’s successes: “It felt good coming here. I know there is a lot of anxiety, pressure, tense moments the last two times we were here. Walking back into this clubhouse, I had a couple of seconds where I thought, ‘We did something special here.'” Lovullo added, “The baseball world saw the Arizona Diamondbacks play really good baseball in a really good series and won the National League here. We deserved to because we were a good team.”
Diamondbacks’ Offensive Performance
Arizona demonstrated their offensive prowess on Friday, securing their eighth win in 11 outings. Gabriel Moreno launched a two-run homer, while Joc Pederson and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. also contributed with home runs. Despite injuries to Moreno (sprained left thumb) and Gurriel (left elbow soreness), Pederson’s third-inning home run stood out, particularly after an exchange with Phillies fans.
“After they talked trash to me in my first at-bat, that was part of it, i told some guys in the dugout that I was going to hit a home run and talk trash back to them.”
Joc Pederson
Zack Wheeler’s Challenge
Phillies’ right-hander Zack Wheeler (8-4, 2.84 ERA) will take the mound on Saturday, aiming to rebound from a rough outing where he gave up a career-high four homers and eight runs in 4 1/3 innings against the Baltimore Orioles. Despite this setback, Wheeler remained optimistic about his physical condition, stating, “I felt great, actually. That’s what’s frustrating about it. I felt great, held my velo, it’s just one of those days. It stinks. Just got to give people credit sometimes. Just one of those days for me.”
Historically, Wheeler has performed well against the Diamondbacks, boasting a 6-3 record with a 2.96 ERA in 11 regular-season starts. Last year, he excelled in the postseason against Arizona, striking out 17 batters with a 2-0 record and a 1.84 ERA over three games.
Tommy Henry’s Return
Arizona will counter with left-hander Tommy Henry (2-2, 6.23 ERA), making his first start since April 29. Henry’s last appearance saw him struggle in relief against the Chicago White Sox, giving up five runs on five hits, including two homers, in four innings. His career record against the Phillies is 1-1 with an 8.79 ERA over three starts, indicating a potential area of vulnerability.
Conclusion
The Phillies will be focusing on Wheeler’s ability to regain his form and the team’s overall resilience in the face of recent defeats as they attempt to rebound. Arizona, in the mean time, will expect to proceed with their series of wins in Philadelphia and gain by the Phillies’ ongoing battles.
Reflecting on the importance of staying composed and focused, Phillies manager remarked, “Baseball is a game of ups and downs. It’s about how you respond to the downs that defines your character and your season.” As both teams prepare for another clash, the outcome will hinge on key performances and strategic adjustments, promising an exciting contest for the fans.
Joe Girardi
