Hittin' Season: A Philadelphia Phillies podcast

On Episode 1030 of Hittin' Season, from WHYY, The Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, try to figure out what outfield prospect Justin Crawford's role on the Phillies will be in 2026. Center field? Left? Can he hit at the big league level? Plus, more on the Phils' plans for the outfield, Bryce Harper threatened by an MLB executive and a Japanese hitter the gang really likes.

Was this the greatest World Series of all time? What lessons can the Phillies take away from the Dodgers and Blue Jays? What should the Phillies do this off-season? On Episode 1029 of Hittin' Season, from WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight is joined by The Athletic's Tyler Kepner to discuss all those items. Plus, the latest news on qualifying offers to two key Phils free agents, a minor league outfielder signing, and Don Mattingly to the Phillies?

On Episode 1028 of Hittin' Season, from WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, run down the names of the biggest free agents on the market and which ones are fits for the Phils. Also, some thoughts on the World Series, and Rob Thomson, Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez are finalists for some of MLB's biggest postseason awards.

On Episode 1027 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss Bryce Harper's comments to the Athletic regarding Dave Dombrowski's comments wondering if the Phillies' superstar will return to elite status next season. Was this a bad look for Harper? And what does he need to do to bounce back in 2025?

Which Phillies will be on the team in 2026 and which will be heading somewhere else? On Episode 1026 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh give their predictions and preview the World Series between the Blue Jays and Dodgers. Also, would you give up the farm in a deal for Detroit's Tarik Skubal?

On Episode 1025 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal recap Phillies team president Dave Dombrowski's end-of-year news conference. Dave had some interesting things to say about Bryce Harper, Nick Castellanos and the team's performance in the NLDS and hinted at changes that could be coming for the 2026 roster.

Rob Thomson will be back as manager of the Phillies once again, in 2026. The Good Phight's John Stolnis and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh react to the reports that came down on Monday. Is it the right move and what coaches should return with Thomson, if any? Can the Phils enact the kind of change the fanbase wants by returning the manager for at least one more season?

Is this end of an era? After the Phillies' stunning Game 4 loss to the Dodgers, questions abound as to whether how many of these players will be back in 2026. How did this happen? Again??? Hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher react to the incomprehensible Orion Kerkering play, the most underrated reason why they lost Game 4, the offense that disappeared once again, and whether it's time for manager Rob Thomson to be let go.

The 2025 Phillies are still alive thanks to their 8-2 win over the Dodgers in Game 3 of the NLDS, keeping their season going for at least one more game. On this edition of Hittin' Season, the Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal recap Game 3, featuring Kyle Schwarber's two homers, phenomenal pitching by Aaron Nola and Ranger Suarez, and a breakout night from the rest of the bats. Plus, the gang sets up Thursday night's Game 4 in L.A. as well.

The Phillies 2025 season is on the brink. After losing Game 2 of their NLDS series against the Dodgers, 4-3, the Phils head to L.A. needing to win three straight games to continue their quest for a World Series. Hosts John Stolnis and Liz Roscher discuss Rob Thomson's decision to bunt in the 9th inning, the continued absence of Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, Jesus Luzardo's outstanding outing, and more bullpen failures. Also, why is Aaron Nola starting Game 3?

After a crushing Game 1 loss to the Dodgers in the NLDS on Saturday night, can the Phillies get up off the mat and win Game 2 at the suddenly vulnerable Citizens Bank Park? On this edition of Hittin' Season, the Good Phight's John Stolnis recaps a bitterly disappointing Game 1, why the bullpen is more to blame than the bats, Rob Thomson's managerial decisions and looks ahead to Game 2. What do they need to do to send the series back to Los Angeles tied at 1-1?

Justin Klugh talks about the MLB playoff picture after the Wild Card rounds, as well as what's to be expected when the Dodgers come to Citizens Bank Park for the NLDS.

It will be the Dodgers. After sweeping the Cincinnati Reds in their Wild Card series on Wednesday, the Phillies now know who their opponent will be in the NLDS, the defending champs, who will take on the Phils beginning Saturday night at Citizens Bank Park. John Stolnis of the Good Phight takes a look at the upcoming series between two of baseball's heavyweights, including Game 1 starter Shohei Ohtani's first-ever postseason appearance as a pitcher. How do the two teams match up? Also, some thoughts on the Phils' Wednesday night intrasquad game and a recap of the other three wild card series, all of which are going the full three games!

It's time for the playoffs. The Phillies, looking to get back to the World Series for the first time since 2022 and win it for the first time since 2008, will spend this week waiting to see who emerges as the winners of the NL Wild Card, knowing they will host either the Dodgers or Reds beginning on Monday night. So, what's ahead for the Phils this week? John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss that, relive the best moments of the 2025 regular season, and discuss the epic Mets' collapse that will forever haunt that already-scarred fanbase.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher decide whether or not Kyle Schwarber will surpass Ryan Howard's single-season Phillies home run record as well as the vicious wild card fights going on the NL and AL as the season wraps up. Then, Baseball Prospectus editor Craig Goldstein gives some inside info on the Phillies' potential NLDS opponent, the Dodgers.

The Phillies hit a franchise record 8 home runs in Wednesday night's 11-1 win over the Marlins, clinching the No. 2 seed and a bye past the wild card round of the National League playoffs! On Episode 1015 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps a marvelous night at the ballpark. Also, Tuesday night's loss continued a troubling trend by the bullpen, the latest on MLB's crazy playoff races, and some insane stats of the week!

On Episode 1014 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the Philadelphia Phillies' current position as they head into the final week of the regular season and prepare for the postseason. They analyze key players to watch, including milestones for Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber, and the importance of maintaining momentum. The conversation shifts to pitching strategies, particularly the roles of Aaron Nola and Walker Buehler in the playoffs. Lineup adjustments are also examined, with a focus on how the team is responding to Alec Bohm's return. The episode concludes with a discussion on the controversy surrounding Nick Castellanos and the competitive landscape of the National League wild card race.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher wrap up the Phillies' victorious series against the Dodgers and talk about what's next for the team in Arizona. Then, Mitch Rupert breaks down the current state of some top Phillies prospects as the minor league season winds down.

For the second year in a row, the Phillies are NL East champs! On this special bonus edition of Hittin' Season, the Good Phight's John Stolnis recaps Monday night's thrilling 6-5 win over the Dodgers in Los Angeles that clinched a second straight NL East title!

For the fourth year in a row, the Phillies are going to the playoffs. They had a chance to clinch the NL East on Sunday but came up short, so they'll look to do it this week in Los Angeles. On Episode 1012 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospctus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the weekend series against the Royals and a remarkable week of baseball that has them humming and ready for October!

A few months ago, the Mets were 20 games over .500 and in first place in the NL East. After being swept in four games by the Phillies in September, they're just hoping for a wild card spot. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about Jesus Luzardo's magnificent performance in game four after a rough first, as well as the Phillies lineup's success against New York.

Can we bottle this version of the Phillies for October? On Episode 1010 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the Phils' 9-3 and 12-3 wins over the Mets on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and their 10-game lead in the NL East. How the Phillies' outfield has morphed into one of the best in baseball, and why John predicts the Mets will NOT make the playoffs.

After the Phillies' 1-0 win over the Mets in Philadelphia on Monday night, is the National League East race now over? On Episode 1009 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, discuss Aaron Nola's performance and the Phils' 8-game lead in the division with three more to play. Also, a discussion about Trea Turner's hamstring injury, Alec Bohm hitting the Injured List, and a conversation about America's newest villain, Philly Karen.

Against the team with the best record in baseball, the Phillies won two out of three this week and are in prime position for the No. 2 seed in the National League. On the latest Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, recap a fun series in Milwaukee, discuss Aaron Nola's future, Harrison Bader's surge, the outfield platoon and preview this upcoming weekend in the National League.
 
 
 
 Chapters: 
 
 
 
 00:00 - Injury Updates and Series Overview
 
 03:03 - Phillies vs. Brewers: A Playoff Preview?
 
 06:05 - Key Performances and Clutch Moments
 
 08:53 - Outfield Dynamics and Player Changes
 
 11:56 - Ranger Suarez: The Emerging No. 2
 
 14:45 - Aaron Nola's Performance and Future Outlook
 
 30:33 - Phillies' Pitching Dilemmas and Playoff Considerations
 
 35:37 - Kyle Schwarber's Slump and Offensive Impact
 
 39:01 - Upcoming Series vs. Marlins and NL Weekend Slate

On Labor Day, the Phillies won a thriller over the Brewers for what was easily their best win of the season. On Episode 1007 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, and Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus discuss Monday's dramatic win, the impact of players like Garrett Stubbs and Harrison Bader, and the performance of the bullpen. As September approaches, the hosts make predictions about the team's chances in the playoffs and the potential for Kyle Schwarber to break Ryan Howard's home run record.
 
 
 
 Chapters:
 
 
 
 00:00 - Phillies' Dramatic Win Over the Brewers
 
 02:59 - Justin Klugh's Upcoming Book on the 1941 Phillies
 
 05:49 - Resilience in the Face of Adversity
 
 09:04 - Key Players Making a Difference
 
 11:53 - The Impact of Garrett Stubbs' Return
 
 14:53 - Harrison Bader's Contributions to the Team
 
 18:02 - Future Considerations for the Phillies
 
 20:55 - Did Realmuto Swing?
 
 26:08 - Managing Player Dynamics: Rob Thompson's Approach
 
 34:38 - Analyzing the Brewers: Strengths and Weaknesses
 
 39:38 - Phillies' Resilience: Learning from Past Series
 
 42:11 - Bullpen Concerns: Navigating Late-Season Challenges
 
 52:38 - September Predictions: Home Run Records and Team Performance
 
 54:22 - Home Run Records and Player Performance
 
 56:20 - Pitching Prospects: Ranger Suarez vs. Jesus Luzardo
 
 59:20 - Aaron Nola's Final Month and Team Dynamics
 
 01:01:11 - Phillies' Division Chances and Playoff Prospects
 
 01:07:15 - Final Thoughts and Reflections on the Season

Last week, the Phillies were swept in humiliating fashion against the Mets in New York. The lead in the NL East was trimmed to four games. But just four days later, after winning three of four against Atlanta, the lead is back up to six. What a turnaround! Hittin' Season host John Stolnis recaps a fun weekend against the Braves, the Mets' dismal four games against the Marlins, as well as Nick Castellanos' attitude about over his recent usage by Rob Thomson.

Coming off that awful Mets sweep in New York, the Phillies returned home and made absolute hamburger meat out of the Atlanta Braves, thanks to Kyle Schwarber's historic four-home run game. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher break down the 19-4 victory, give it some historical context, and talk about what lies ahead for the Phillies.

Another trip to New York, another series sweep at the hands of the Mets. The Phillies have lost 10 in a row at Citi Field and 24 of their last 30. What the heck is going on? On Episode 1004 of WHYY's Hittin' Season, host John Stolnis of The Good Phight offers five key takeaways from this week's dreadful series. Where do they go from here? Is the NL East race now up for grabs? Also, Phils fans chime in with their takeaways in three words or less.

Round one goes to the Mets, clobbering the Phillies in Monday's opener of a crucial three-game series between the two clubs vying for first in the National League East. On Episode 1003 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and SABR's Liz Roscher chat about a brutal night at Citi Field, the Phils' own personal House of Horrors over the last three seasons. The offense blew scoring chances early, Cristopher Sanchez couldn't hold a lead, the defense was brutal, and yes, Jordan Romano entered the festivities. What does it mean for the rest of the week? How vital is at least one win from the Mets by Wednesday?
 
 
 
 Chapters
 
 00:00 - Introduction and Initial Reactions
 
 02:43 - Game Overview and Key Moments
 
 05:42 - Phillies' Performance and Missed Opportunities
 
 08:44 - Historical Struggles at Citi Field
 
 11:30 - Emotional Impact of Rivalry Games
 
 14:41 - Pitching Decisions and Game Management
 
 17:40 - Conclusion and Future Outlook
 
 24:52 - Game Analysis and Player Performance
 
 27:36 - Struggles Against Rival Bullpens
 
 30:09 - Frustrations of Phillies Fans
 
 35:18 - Bryce Harper's Rivalry Pack
 
 43:11 - Karma and Performance Metrics
 
 46:27 - The Impact of Zach Wheeler's Injury
 
 48:45 - Rallying for Wheeler
 
 52:05 - The Depth of the Phillies' Rotation
 
 55:24 - Final Thoughts on the Season

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the Phillies' swiftly expanding lead in the NL East, Bryson Stott and Max Kepler's newfound success at the plate, and a new twist in the Phillies' potential future at the catching position.

Was it the best Phillies series of the Rob Thomson era? The Phils made some history in their three-game sweep of the Mariners at Citizens Bank Park this week, with hitting and pitching heroes galore. John Stolnis of The Good Phight is joined by sports radio legend Jody McDonald of 94 WIP and the Infinity Sports Network to break down the Seattle series, as well as MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's discussion of radical league-wide realignment once expansion takes place.

The Phillies had a harrowing weekend in Washington, DC. They lost their ace, Zack Wheeler, potentially for the season. Aaron Nola got shelled in his first game back in three months. The offense was inconsistent. We all though Jhoan Duran was dead for a few minutes there. And yet, the Phils split their weekend series and went 6-4 on their 10-game road trip. On Episode 1000!!! of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher spend the first half of the show allowing their dark thoughts to manifest before turning things over to the light for an optimistic look at the first place Phillies.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about how Nick Castellanos' struggles are at this point just a part of the Phillies offense, Aaron Nola's return to the rotation, the Phillies' head-shaking loss to the Nationals on Thursday, and Matt Strahm's Pokemon cards.

The Phillies lost the final two games in Cincinnati as the offense scored in just 2 of the 27 innings played against the Reds this week. But resist the urge to freak out! On Episode 998 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight looks at the disappearance of the offense and some concerns about Ranger Suarez' velocity drop. Also, John is joined by his 14-year-old son Ethan, a die-hard Nationals fan, to help preview this weekend's four-game series in Washington.

After another late inning win over the Reds Monday night, the Phillies roll continues with contributions up and down the lineup and from the most pleasant surprise of the season - Taijuan Walker. On Episode 997 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the weekend sweep of the Rangers, the remarkable turnaround of the Jhoan Duran-led bullpen, Zack Wheeler's velocity drop and the freefalling Mets.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about Zack Wheeler's shoulder scare, what some old friends can add to the Phillies as they return, and what lies ahead for the Phillies on their road trip that starts in Texas against the Rangers.

When will the Phillies call up stud prospects Andrew Painter and/or Justin Crawford? On this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight chats with The Morning Call's Tom Housenick about the progress of Painter and Crawford and gives an update on Aaron Nola's rehab and David Robertson's progress to the big leagues. Also, the Phils take two out of three from Baltimore but fail to sweep. John is done piling on Max Kepler, and throws some flowers at Taijuan Walker as well.
 
 00:00 - Show Introduction
 02:14 - The Phillies Are Having Trouble Sweeping Teams
 08:50 - Max Kepler's Last Gasp, John's Done Piling On
 17:19 - Throwing Some Love At Taijuan Walker
 20:28 - Ranger Suarez' Up and Down Season
 24:47 - Introduction to the Iron Pigs and Key Prospects w/ Tom Housenick
 25:00 - Andrew Painter's Progress in AAA
 34:46 - Justin Crawford's Performance and Future
 36:54 - Update on Aaron Nola's Rehab
 39:04 - David Robertson Update

On Episode 994 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of SB Nation's The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and SABR's Liz Roscher discuss the Phillies' series win over Detroit and their Monday night 13-3 blowout of the Baltimore Orioles, highlighting key players like Kyle Schwarber and Christopher Sanchez. They delve into the MVP candidacy of Schwarber, compare his stats with Shohei Ohtani, and analyze the outfield situation, particularly the struggles of Max Kepler. The conversation also touches on Zack Wheeler's recent performance and injury updates for the Phils.
 
 Chapters
 
 00:00 - Introduction and Game Overview
 02:46 - Phillies' Performance and Player Highlights
 05:27 - Kyle Schwarber's MVP Candidacy
 08:37 - Comparing Stats: Schwarber vs. Ohtani
 11:34 - Contract Talks and Future Considerations
 14:30 - Outfield Dynamics and Player Decisions
 21:09 - Max Kepler's Struggles and Stats
 23:31 - Outfield Decisions and Roster Moves
 25:56 - Power Surge: Phillies' Offense in the Second Half
 29:29 - The Importance of Comeback Wins
 33:42 - The Jhoan Duran Effect: A New Closer's Impact
 39:26 - Christopher Sanchez: Rising Star in the Rotation
 47:13 - Concerns About Zach Wheeler
 54:28 - Injury Updates and Final Thoughts

On Episode 993 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the Phillies' trade for outfielder Harrison Bader and what it could mean for the outfield situation over the season's final two months. Also, did Dave Dombrowski do enough, and who were the biggest winners across baseball at the deadline?

On Episode 992 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis and Justin Klugh break down the Phillies' newest closer, Jhoan Duran, for prospects Eduardo Tait and Mick Abel. Why he's a perfect fit at a very fair price. Also, Dave Dombrowski says he's not done yet, looking to add an outfield bat? What could be next on the horizon?

On Episode 991 of Hittin’ Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight’s John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and editor of SABR’s Baseball Research Journal Liz Roscher offer their predictions on what Dave Dombrowski will do at the Trade Deadline this Thursday. Relievers? Bats? Both? Neither? Also, Bryce Harper goes nose-to-nose with Rob Manfred in a heated clubhouse meeting over a potential salary cap, and we recap a mostly good series in the Bronx and a bad start to their series in Chicago Monday night.
 
 Takeaways
 
 The Phillies are struggling to maintain consistent performance, especially against weaker teams.
 JT Real Muto's resurgence has significantly improved the Phillies' lineup.
 The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to prioritize bullpen help.
 Bryce Harper's vocal stance against a salary cap highlights player concerns about management's intentions.
 The dynamics between players and management are tense, especially with Rob Manfred's recent actions.
 The potential trade market is thinning, making it harder for the Phillies to acquire top talent.
 Players are increasingly aware of the economic challenges facing baseball and are willing to fight for their rights.
 The role of former players in management can complicate relationships with current players.
 The Phillies' management must balance short-term needs with long-term player development.
 The upcoming trade deadline could significantly impact the team's playoff chances.
 
 Chapters
 
 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Current Situation
 04:47 - Trade Deadline Insights and Player Performance
 09:49 - The Impact of Key Players on the Phillies' Lineup
 14:53 - Analyzing the Phillies' Trade Needs and Strategies
 19:47 - Recent Trade Rumors and Market Dynamics
 24:48 - Injury Updates and Their Implications for Trades
 29:30 - Final Thoughts on the Trade Deadline and Team Prospects
 36:17 - Bryce Harper vs. Rob Manfred: Tensions Rise
 42:29 - The Impact of Former Players on Current Negotiations
 
 Keywords
 
 Phillies, trade deadline, Rob Manfred, Bryce Harper, JT Real Muto, MLB, baseball, player performance, labor issues, team dynamics

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss the "passionate, productive" conversation reported between the Phillies and MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, as well as their Jesus Luzardo concerns. Then, Tim Jackson of Baseball Prospectus talks about Phillies trade deadline scenarios and Andrew Mearns of Pinstripe Alley tells us what to expect from the Yankees this weekend.

On Episode 989 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps Wednesday night's awful loss to the Red Sox and tries to get to the bottom of Jesus Luzardo's struggles. Also, Cristopher Sanchez is now a bona fide ace, John goes inside the numbers on what makes him so special. And what are the latest Trade Rumors surrounding the Phils? John breaks down all the latest. Could the Phils move Ranger Suarez or Luzardo this summer?
 
 
 
 Show Notes:
 
 
 
 Disastrous loss in the finale
 
 Phillies blow a 5-0 lead, HRs from Schwarber, Harper, Castellanos & Stott, Realmuto
 It's the Phils’ first loss in a game they homered five or more times since June 10, 2019. 
 They haven't won three in a row since June 18-20.
 Blame Realmuto & Luzardo, who had a no-hitter going into the 5th, gives us 6 in the 5th after walking in two runs then serving up a grand slam
 FELL APART WHILE PITCHING FROM THE STRETCH AGAIN
 Thomson said they have to keep digging and working on what’s wrong with Luzardo, specifically in the stretch
 Since June 11, opponents have hit .192/.252/.253 with 37 strikeouts and eight walks when there is no one on base against Luzardo. With runners on base, those numbers jump to .339/.443/.576, 16 strikeouts and 11 walks. (Gelb)
 Gelb says he went back to his old mechanics last night, but it still didn’t work
 Jesus Luzardo says he is working day and night to fix his issues and he says they need to be fixed. He says teams are hitting him hard when he is pitching out of the stretch. He says it is not on JT Realmuto losing that foul ball pop-up. He says he and other Phillies lost it as well. Manager Rob Thomson says Jesus Luzardo lost his concentration. 
 Phillies now 3-8 in Luzardo’s last 11 starts
 They’ve now given Luzardo 3-0, 4-1 and 5-0 leads in July only to have him lose all 3 of them.
 He posted a 2.15 ERA in his first 11 starts. He allowed 20 runs in his next two. He made significant mechanical changes when pitching from the stretch, and it’s resulted in only a 4.79 ERA over his last nine starts.
 UNLESS LUZARDO FIGURES THIS OUT, THEIR ENTIRE OFF-SEASON WILL HAVE BEEN A COMPLETE AND UTTER FAILURE
 The good news is this is a mechanical issue… which would indicate to me it CAN be fixed… but can they fix it in time?
 PITCH TIPPING: The Red Sox are renowned for doing this.
 Two pitches later, Story doubled home a run.
 THIS WAS NOT A STRONG ROB THOMSON GAME
 Luzardo should have been pulled after the second straight bases loaded walk, but got Jordan Romano up too late… after the game, Thomson admitted that was a mistake
 Pinch-ran Weston Wilson for Kyle Schwarber in the 10th after Schwarber’s RBI single… Wilson, who is not fast… thrown out trying to steal 2nd to end the 10th
 With Wilson already used, Max Kepler had to face a lefty reliever and watched a called strike three to end the game in the 11th, instead of having Wilson available to pinch hit
 Rob Thomson on the 5th inning tonight: 
 Said they have to keep digging and working on what’s wrong with Luzardo, specifically in the stretch
 Harper’s home run was the 350th of his career
 Bryce Harper tonight became the youngest of the 8 active players to reach 350 career home runs joining Giancarlo Stanton, Mike Trout, Paul Goldschmidt, Manny Machado, Freddie Freeman, Nolan Arenado, Aaron Judge.
 Kyle Schwarber's 34 HR are the 3rd-most through 102 games in Phillies franchise history, behind only Ryan Howard in 2006 and Mike Schmidt in 1979 -- both had 36.
 Cristopher Sanchez is a TRUE ACE: https://www.thegoodphight.com/2025/7/23/24472912/cristopher-sanchez-is-a-real-bona-fide-cy-young-contender 
 
 
 WHEELER & SANCHEZ
 
 This gives the Phillies a leg-up in the postseason
 No one can match what the Phillies can do in the playoffs
 
 
 STARK ON SCHWARBER
 
 Says he believes Schwarber will be back here
 4 years, $100 million is the number… how is he going to have a better deal four years AFTER the first free agent contract???
 
 
 TRADE DEADLINE LATEST:
 
 Jayson Stark on 975 the Fanatic w/ Mikey Miss: 
 Dombrowski wants to use his biggest chips to trade for a big time power bullpen arm controllable beyond this year, Duran, Bautista, no on Miller or Clase
 If he gets one, it’s a right-handed platoon bat that falls into his lap
 Bullpen arm is more important than a bat
 Jeff Passan: The Phillies have quietly built up one of the best farm systems in baseball, and president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski's history of trading prospects for impact talent is unmatched. Still, with the Phillies entering a transition phase over the next few years, they aren't likely to sacrifice all of their depth. That complicates their tack at this deadline, because they are among the few teams with the need and capacity

In this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss the signing of David Robertson, the state of the Phillies' bullpen, Bryce Harper's offensive surge and Monday's night's bizarre walk-off victory. They also dive into a trade deadline draft, evaluating potential players the Phillies could acquire to strengthen their roster. Also, why hasn't Justin Crawford been called up yet?
 
 
 
 Takeaways: 
 
 David Robertson returns to the Phillies for a third time.
 The Phillies' bullpen struggles with a 430 ERA.
 Recent game highlights include a walk-off win against the Red Sox.
 The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to make moves.
 Players like Eugenio Suarez and Mason Miller are potential targets.
 Bryce Harper is showing signs of a strong second half.
 The team is looking for a dynamic leadoff hitter.
 Justin Crawford could be an internal solution for the outfield.
 The importance of strong starting pitching for the Phillies' success.
 The need for a consistent offensive performance from the team.
 
 Chapters
 
 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season
 02:29 - David Robertson's Signing and Its Implications
 05:24 - Evaluating the Bullpen and Future Moves
 08:29 - Game Highlights: Walk-off Win Against the Red Sox
 11:20 - Bryce Harper's Performance and Impact
 14:33 - Looking Ahead: The Phillies' Playoff Contention
 22:25 - Phillies' Offensive Needs and Player Injuries
 24:14 - Concerns About Starting Pitchers Jesus Luzardo & Ranger Suarez
 26:26 - Upcoming Challenges Against the Yankees
 28:31 - Highlight Moments: Kyle Schwarber's Grand Slam
 29:52 - Assessing the Phillies' Performance and Consistency
 32:03 - Trade Deadline Player Draft!
 01:05:46 - Final Thoughts

Kyle Schwarber put on quite the show at the All-Star Game and the trade deadline is still weeks away. Meanwhile, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about who needs to step it up for the Phillies offense in the second half, and break down the Phillies' first opponents, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

On Episode 986 of Hittin’ Season, powered by WHYY, host John Stolnis of The Good Phight marvels at the heroics of Kyle Schwarber in the All Star Game Home Run Derby Swing-Off that won him MVP honors of the Midsummer Classic. Also, why MLB was correct in not naming Cristopher Sanchez and Ranger Suarez All Stars and how a low-key All Star Break for most of the Phils is a blessing in disguise. Then John delivers 10 predictions for the second half and answers some Hot Stove mailbag questions.

On Episode 985 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, review the first half of the Phillies' 2025 season and wonder, how are the Phillies in first place? Also, John, Justin and Liz dive into a trivia challenge centered around the Philadelphia Phillies and their All-Star Game history, flowing through various milestones, memorable moments, and anecdotes from past All-Star Game. 
 
 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season
 02:40 Home Run Derby Highlights and Player Performances
 05:28 Phillies' First Half Performance and Team Dynamics
 08:42 Strengths and Weaknesses of the Phillies' Roster
 11:37 Reflections on the First Half and Comparisons to Other Teams
 14:46 Grading the Players: Starting Pitching and Offense
 17:37 Bryce Harper's Impact and Expectations
 20:33 Assessing the Bullpen and Overall Team Performance
 23:30 Final Thoughts and All-Star Trivia
 40:11 Trade Deadline Predictions
 42:39 All-Star Game Trivia Fun
 53:38 Milestones and Memorable Moments
 59:16 All-Star Game Trivia Begins
 01:02:18 Milestones and Historical Context
 01:05:07 The Evolution of the Vet Stadium
 01:07:43 Home Run Derby Highlights
 01:11:31 Memorable All-Star Moments
 01:15:17 Final Trivia Challenge and Wrap-Up

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about some recent whispers on Phillies trade deadline moves, particularly in the bullpen, as well as what lies ahead for the Phillies in San Diego this weekend. Then Mitch Rupert comes by to reset expectations—just a little—for Andrew Painter.

On Episode 983 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY in Philadelphia, host John Stolnis of the Good Phight is joined by Crossing Broad's Luke Arcaini to discuss Bryce Harper's long-awaited coming out party in Wednesday's 13-0 shellacking of the Giants in their house of horrors, San Francisco. Also, a horrific walk-off loss, trade deadline talk, Andrew Painter's timeline, and lots more!

On Episode 982 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the historic pitching performance of Zack Wheeler and why the Phillies cannot waste his performance, and the starting rotation, by being passive at the trade deadline. Also, thoughts on All Stars Wheeler and Kyle Schwarber, snubs, and concerns over Bryce Harper's wrist continue.