After the Philadelphia Phillies let Game 1 of the NLDS slip away, they’ll need to regroup for a stronger performance in Game 2 on Sunday at Citizens Bank Park, and they’ll have to do it without one of their regulars in the lineup.
In a surprising 6-2 loss on Saturday night, the New York Mets capitalized on a rare breakdown by the Phillies’ usually reliable bullpen during the eighth inning. The defeat overshadowed a stellar outing by ace Zack Wheeler, putting the Phillies in a tough spot. Historically, teams that win Game 1 of a best-of-five series go on to win the series 72 percent of the time, making Game 2 crucial for Philadelphia’s chances.
Phillies’ shocking lineup change before NLDS Game 2 raises concerns about Alec Bohm’s health
When the Phillies released their starting lineup for Game 2 of the NLDS, third baseman Alec Bohm was notably absent, replaced by utility player Edmundo Sosa, who was slotted to bat eighth. Bohm has struggled since returning from the injured list with a strained left hand, hitting just .170 with a .502 OPS over the final 12 games of the season. These struggles raised concerns about his health, especially after going 0-for-4 in Game 1.
Before his injury, Bohm had been a key contributor to the Phillies’ offense, posting a .295 average with an .830 OPS, 33 doubles, and 70 RBI in the first half of the season. However, his numbers declined slightly after the All-Star break, and then further after his IL stint. Despite a small sample size, manager Rob Thomson’s decision to start Sosa suggests the team may still have concerns about Bohm’s hand.
Sosa, who hit .257 with a .734 OPS in 90 games this season, stepped up earlier in the year when shortstop Trea Turner was sidelined with a hamstring injury. He has limited postseason experience but was part of the Phillies’ 2022 World Series run, where he hit .250/.300/.375 in 12 playoff games.
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