Max Kepler Powers Phillies to Easy Win Over Diamondbacks

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Max Kepler is proving to be a valuable asset for the Philadelphia Phillies as the team aims for a successful season. On Saturday night, he launched a two-run home run off Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Pfaadt, driving the ball 392 feet at 107 mph. This was part of a powerful offensive display that led the Phillies to a 7-2 victory, one of their most comfortable wins of the season.

The Phillies have had a challenging start, winning closely contested games early in the month. However, since last Saturday, they have managed to win three games by a sizable margin. Kepler has significantly contributed to this success, homering in all three of those games. His performance includes a .280 batting average and an OPS just under .900 against right-handed pitching, with 10 extra-base hits over 94 plate appearances.

“He’s been awesome,” said catcher J.T. Realmuto. “He has good at-bats all the time, hits the ball hard. He’s been doing damage for us.” After struggling to support pitcher Aaron Nola early in the season, the offense broke out with seven runs on Saturday, helping Nola secure his first victory after a challenging start.

Nola pitched six scoreless innings, displaying improved control and velocity. He recorded 17 of his 18 outs via strikeout or groundout and held the Diamondbacks hitless with runners in scoring position. This marks a notable progression for Nola, who had been battling early-season challenges, including control issues during the first few innings of the game.

Despite entering the game with a 1-5 record and a 4.61 ERA, Nola is trending in the right direction. He reached pitches exceeding 94 mph for the first time this season under favorable weather conditions, a stark contrast from earlier games played in colder temperatures. As the team looks to maintain momentum, they are also encouraged by Trea Turner, who has a .475 on-base percentage in the last 14 games.

The Phillies, now at 19-14, are matching their season-high, five games over .500. They aim for their first series sweep of the season behind pitcher Ranger Suarez in Sunday afternoon’s game.