Phillies Edge Out Marlins in Thrilling 11-10 Victory at Citizens Bank Park

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia Phillies secured a nail-biting 11-10 victory against the Miami Marlins Saturday afternoon, enjoying an 80-degree day at Citizens Bank Park filled with offense and tension.

With a season-high 18 hits, the Phillies capitalized on numerous opportunities, taking the lead early and holding on through a late-game scare. Starting pitcher Taijuan Walker faced challenges with control but managed to navigate a critical situation without yielding significant damage.

Walker, who pitched four innings, allowed just one run and one hit, while collecting two strikeouts despite not feeling at his best. “Just couldn’t really get extended too much on the glove side,” Walker said, referring to shoulder stiffness impacting his performance.

The offense came alive in the third inning, ignited by Johan Rojas’ double. After reaching third on Bryson Stott’s ground out, Rojas scored on Trea Turner’s line drive. The inning escalated as the Phillies loaded the bases, leading to Nick Castellanos’ sac fly and a two-RBI double from Max Kepler, extending their lead to 4-0.

Miami managed to respond with a run in the fourth but the Phillies maintained pressure, increasing their advantage as they transitioned into the later innings. Rojas struck again, laying down a bunt that allowed him to reach first safely, contributing to a growing scoreline in favor of the home team.

“Rojas has been doing a great job. As long as he’s playing well, we’ll keep running him out there,” manager Rob Thomson mentioned, praising Rojas’ recent performance. Rojas finished with three hits and scored multiple runs.

The Phillies’ lineup proved to be dynamic, with Trea Turner going 4 for 5 with two RBIs and Stott recording three RBIs as well. “It felt good to contribute to the team,” Stott said. “We were all feeding off each other today.”

As the game progressed, the Marlins struggled against the Phillies’ hitting, but things took a turn when reliever Jordan Romano faced difficulties in the ninth inning, allowing six runs. “I felt like my arm was in a good place,” Romano said, reflecting on the challenges that ensued despite feeling confident with his pitches.

Jose Alvarado was called upon to seal the game, and he effectively closed out the match, with Miami’s Xavier Edwards lining out to right field, confirming the victory for Philadelphia. The win improved the Phillies’ record to 13-8, marking their third consecutive triumph.

The two teams are set to continue their series Sunday at 1:35 p.m., featuring pitchers Jesus Luzardo for the Marlins against Connor Gillispie for the Phillies.

The game saw the Phillies managing their players carefully, especially as Nick Castellanos took on designated hitter duties as a precaution for his hip flexor. Thomson stated, “We’re just trying to keep him off his feet. It’s important to manage player health.”

Additionally, Brandon Marsh is heading to the 10-day injured list due to a right hamstring strain, giving Rojas an extended look as he fills the outfield gap. Marsh’s injury has hindered his performance, with no hits in his last 13 games. Cal Stevenson has been called up in his place, having shown promise in the minors.

“We’ll keep monitoring Marsh’s progress and hope he can hit 100 percent soon,” Thomson added.