Phillies Outlast Nationals in Thrilling 10-Inning Opener

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Philadelphia Phillies kicked off their 2025 MLB season with a dramatic 7-3 victory over the Washington Nationals in a tightly contested game that extended into the 10th inning Thursday. Key contributions came from Kyle Schwarber and Bryson Stott, who propelled the Phillies to victory with critical hits late in the game.

After a scoreless first six innings, Nationals pitcher MacKenzie Gore recorded a career-high 13 strikeouts, preventing the Phillies from capitalizing on scoring chances. The only run allowed by Gore came from a fifth-inning homer by Nationals slugger Joey Meneses, which briefly gave Washington a 1-0 lead.

The tide turned in the seventh when former National Kyle Schwarber hit a first-pitch home run, followed shortly by another blast from ex-National J.T. Realmuto. This offensive surge put Philadelphia ahead 2-1.

Despite the setback, the Nationals tied the game again in the eighth inning, but the Phillies responded decisively in the 10th. Stott hit a tiebreaking two-run double, followed by a two-run triple later in the inning, sealing the deal for the defending NL East champions.

“It was an intense game, especially since it’s opening day,” Stott said. “We knew we needed to get that run in the 10th to give us some cushion.”

Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola held steady through six innings, only surrendering two hits and one earned run. Nola was relieved by José Alvarado, who earned the win after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Craig Kimbrel closed the game, securing the victory.

Gore’s performance established a new record for the most strikeouts by a Nationals pitcher on opening day, surpassing a previous mark set in 2019. His strong start, however, was overshadowed by the late-game heroics of the Phillies.

Moreover, Bryce Harper received a mixed reception at Nationals Park, being booed by the crowd during pregame introductions and every time he stepped up to bat. Interestingly, Harper tied the game with a pivotal home run in the seventh inning, putting any animosity to the side and delivering for his team when needed.

“It’s always fun to play in front of a crowd that’s passionate about baseball,” Harper said. “I just wanted to help my team win.”

The Phillies will continue their season on Saturday, with RHP Chad Kuhl (10-14, 4.41 ERA in 2024) slated to start for the Nationals against LHP Jesús Luzardo, who will be making his debut for Philadelphia.

The game drew an attendance of 41,231 spectators, who witnessed a thrilling start to the new baseball season, marked by excitement and unexpected twists typical of opening day.