The Philadelphia Phillies take two of three against the Baltimore Orioles

The series started off on a rough note as the Philadephia Phillies were shut out by Baltimore. A team getting shut out is not completely surprising, but it’s certainly disappointing for a squad looking to save their season and force their way into the playoffs. It’s even more disheartening when one considers the Orioles haven’t held a team scoreless since they did so against the Kansas City Royals in mid-July.

After that gut-wrenching defeat, the Phillies bounced back with a thrilling extra-innings victory on Tuesday night. It was not as easy as it should have been against the league’s worst team, but then again, it never is for the Phillies.

Take the series finale for instance; against the lowly Orioles, the Phillies got out to a 4-2 lead but nearly squandered it in quick order. Thankfully, the bullpen held, and the Phillies were able to wrap up the series with a win, but they certainly would have preferred to sweep a Baltimore team with over 100 losses.

Series MVP: J.T. Reamuto

Bryce Harper was his usual MVP self, and Ian Kennedy earned two saves in three innings without giving up a run, but it was JT Realmuto who came alive in the Phillies’ wins.

With a .333 average and three RBI’s (all of which ended up deciding their respective games), Realmuto proved to be the difference in this series. Many had complained about his lack of performance lately, particularly at the plate, but the BCIB turned it back on in this series.

While he still may not be performing up to his standards, the All-Star catcher is certainly trending in the right direction as the team heads into October.

Up next for the Philadelphia Phillies

The Phils will keep it Philly as they stay in town for a four-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. While it’s tough to ask for a sweep, especially in a four-game series, but with the Atlanta Braves still holding first in the division, the Phillies have to take advantage of every game against a lesser opponent.

The first pitch is tomorrow at 7:05 PM, with Aaron Nola taking the mound against Connor Overton. Just as this crucial series ends, another begins against Pittsburgh. Hopefully, the Philadelphia Phillies can get off on the right foot this time.