Phillies and Padres Clash in Key MLB Showdown at Citizens Bank Park

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia Phillies (50-35) will face the San Diego Padres (45-39) in the second game of a doubleheader on July 2, 2025. The teams are meeting at Citizens Bank Park today at 1:05 p.m. ET, with the Phillies looking to extend their lead in the NL East.

After dominating the series opener with a 4-0 victory, the Phillies are hoping to maintain their momentum. Zack Wheeler fanned ten batters in that game, showcasing Philadelphia’s strong pitching. The victory put the Phillies two games ahead of the New York Mets.

Meanwhile, the Padres are in a tight race for a Wild Card spot, sitting just one game out of contention. After suffering two losses to the Cincinnati Reds, San Diego is eager to bounce back against the Phillies today.

The matchup features Dylan Cease on the mound for the Padres. With a 3-7 record and a 4.53 ERA, Cease aims to turn his season around. He has recorded 117 strikeouts but struggled in his recent outing, giving up four runs in four innings.

On the other side, the Phillies will send rookie Mick Abel to the mound. Abel has a promising 2-1 record and 3.47 ERA, though he has yet to pitch beyond five innings in any game this season.

Key players to watch include Kyle Schwarber, who leads the Phillies with 25 home runs, and Fernando Tatis Jr. for the Padres, contributing significantly with 15 home runs and 17 stolen bases.

The stakes are high as both teams look to solidify their playoff aspirations in the competitive National League.