Phillies Clinch NL East Title with Thrilling Comeback Win Against Dodgers
The Philadelphia Phillies secured their second consecutive NL East title on Monday, September 15, 2025, with a dramatic 6-5 comeback victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. J.T. Realmuto's sacrifice fly in the 10th inning sealed the win in the series opener between the division leaders.
Game Highlights: A Back-and-Forth Battle
The game was a rollercoaster, with the Phillies blowing leads of 1-0, 4-3, and 5-4. Kyle Schwarber hit his 53rd home run in the first inning, and Weston Wilson added a two-run shot in the seventh. However, the Dodgers kept fighting back, with Andy Pages tying the game with a homer in the ninth and Mookie Betts contributing a homer in the seventh.
- Realmuto's Sac Fly: Drove in the go-ahead run in the 10th.
- Harper's Home Run: Put the Phillies ahead in the eighth.
- Betts' Homer: Tied the game for the Dodgers in the seventh.
- Muncy's Homer: Gave the Dodgers the lead in the fifth.
Key Moments and Stats
Despite the Phillies' offensive efforts, Dodgers pitcher Emmet Sheehan dominated, allowing no hits over 5 2/3 innings. A key moment in the game was when Betts and Shohei Ohtani reached base in 20 straight games, tying for the second-longest active run in the major leagues. Furthermore, Bryce Harper holds a 12-3 record in 15 games against Shohei Ohtani’s clubs since June 3, 2022.
The Road to the Division Title
The Phillies' journey to clinching the NL East was marked by consistent performance and strategic additions. Since August 1st, they've had the best record in baseball, transforming a half-game lead into a commanding advantage. The acquisition of closer Jhoan Duran and outfielder Harrison Bader at the trade deadline significantly bolstered the team. David Robertson was also a key addition.
The Phillies' Dominant Rotation and Offensive Power
The team's success is attributed to a dominant rotation, even with the absence of Zack Wheeler, and a powerful offense led by Kyle Schwarber and Trea Turner. Cristopher Sánchez is expected to be in the running for the NL Cy Young Award, and Ranger Suárez is peaking at the right time. The Phillies are now aiming for a first-round bye in the postseason.
Looking Ahead: Postseason Aspirations
As the Phillies prepare for their fourth consecutive postseason appearance, they are acutely aware of the challenges ahead. Drawing on the experiences of past teams, including the 2008 World Series champions, the 2022 NL Pennant winners, and the talented 2023 squad, the Phillies are determined to make a deep run and potentially secure a World Series title. The message from Jimmy Rollins is clear: it's time for a new generation of Phillies to create their own legacy.
Upcoming Matchup
Phillies LHP Cristopher Sánchez (13-5, 2.57 ERA) starts Tuesday against Dodgers RHP Shohei Ohtani (1-1, 3.75 ERA).