The Philadelphia Phillies faced a tough loss against the Miami Marlins on September 26, 2023, falling 6-5 after 11 innings. The game concluded with a sense of urgency as the Phillies now await news on catcher J.T. Realmuto, who exited in the ninth inning due to a foul tip that struck his hand. Following the incident, he was diagnosed with a right index finger contusion, although an X-ray returned negative results, providing some relief for the team.
Manager Rob Thomson expressed cautious optimism regarding Realmuto’s condition, stating, “That was quite a blow he took to his finger, but the X-ray is negative. We’ll check him out tomorrow.” Realmuto had initially remained in the game after the injury but was later pinch-hit for by Rafael Marchan, unable to grip a bat. The Phillies have been grappling with injuries throughout September, with Trea Turner currently on the injured list and Alec Bohm just returning to action.
The game was particularly significant as the Phillies sought to solidify their position in the playoff race. Starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez delivered an impressive performance, throwing seven shutout innings, allowing only three hits, one walk, and striking out six batters. Sanchez achieved his 200th strikeout of the season, marking a personal milestone. His ERA dropped to a commendable 2.57, highlighting his effectiveness on the mound.
Despite Sanchez’s strong showing, the Phillies were unable to secure the victory. Kyle Schwarber opened the scoring with his 54th home run of the season, followed by Otto Kemp hitting his seventh homer, which put the team ahead early. However, the Marlins, who have won 11 of their last 12 games, mounted a comeback.
In the eighth inning, David Robertson surrendered a solo home run to Griffin Conine, cutting the lead. The Marlins capitalized on an error by Harrison Bader, resulting in an unearned run. As the rain began to fall, the Phillies’ bullpen struggled to maintain their lead.
The ninth inning saw closer Jhoan Duran blow the save, allowing a home run from Heriberto Hernandez, which tied the game. The contest continued into extra innings, with both teams trading opportunities.
The Marlins took a 5-3 lead in the tenth, but the Phillies responded by tying the game again. An intentional walk of Schwarber put the tying run on base, allowing Bohm to drive in Bryson Stott, who was placed on second due to the extra inning rules.
Ultimately, the Marlins secured the win in the eleventh inning, as Xavier Edwards delivered a sacrifice fly that brought home Connor Norby. This loss adds to the mounting pressure on the Phillies as they navigate a challenging stretch of the season with key players potentially sidelined.
As the team prepares for their next game, the focus will be on Realmuto’s health and the implications of his potential absence on the squad’s playoff aspirations. The urgency to perform will remain high as they aim to clinch a Wild Card spot in the National League.
