The Philadelphia Phillies are turning to ace Cristopher Sanchez in a must-win game against the Rays.
Another day, another chance for the Philadelphia Phillies to try to clinch a playoff spot.
After dropping their series against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Phillies are still searching for a spot in the dance. Philadelphia currently sits as the final wild-card team in the National League, holding a two-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Entering the final series of the season, the Phillies understand what is at stake, and the team will have to put together a strong few games. Philadelphia will be taking on the Tampa Bay Rays at home in the final series, giving them a tough test against the best team in the American League.
The Phillies magic number to get into the playoffs sits at two, needing a win and a loss from the Diamondbacks to get in. But all Philadelphia can do is take care of business themselves, while allowing the other games to play out.
Heading into the first game of the series with Tampa Bay, the Phillies will be sending ace Cristopher Sanchez to the mound. Sanchez has done everything for this team all season long, and the Phillies are going to need him to put together a strong outing against the Rays.
Sanchez has generated Cy Young buzz this year due to his performance, and whenever Philadelphia has needed him, he has come through. For the year, Sanchez has posted a 2.93 ERA over 32 starts.
But even with how good he has been, Sanchez has been a little shaky during September. In four starts, the left-hander has recorded a 5.84 ERA.
Against Tampa Bay, if he can set the tone early on, the Phillies may have a chance to at least take care of their side of things today. This will be a playoff-like atmosphere for the Phillies in the opener, and the pressure is on this group to stack some wins.
Phillies Drop Lineup For Rays Opener
Ahead of the game, the Phillies have released the lineup for the opener against Tampa Bay. Here is how Phillies manager Don Mattingly placed the order:
Slugger Kyle Schwarber will be leading off, taking on the designated hitter role. Hitting second will be Trea Turner, playing shortstop.
Star Bryce Harper will be batting third, playing in right field. Alec Bohm moves up to the fourth spot, playing at first base.
Bryson Stott will be at second base, hitting fifth today. Brandon Marsh will be hitting sixth, playing in left field.
Justin Crawford will play in center field, hitting seventh. Catcher J.T. Realmuto will be behind the plate, hitting eighth for the Phillies.
And rounding out the lineup will be Edmundo Sosa, playing at third base.
