Phillies Turn to Cristopher Sanchez After Series Opening Loss vs Astros

The Philadelphia Phillies just can't seem to get out of their own way when it comes to climbing back into the National League East division.

Philadelphia again failed to gain a game on the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday with their series opening loss to the Houston Astros. Had the Phillies won, they would have jumped a game on Atlanta, who lost to the Tampa Bay Rays.

But the Phillies couldn't get the win, with starter Andrew Painter struggling. Now, coming into the second game of the series with Houston, Philadelphia will be turning to ace Cristopher Sanchez to help out.

Sanchez has been incredible for the Phillies this year, posting a 2.58 ERA over 29 starts. But he will need another strong outing against the Astros if Philadelphia wants to keep pace.

The left-hander has generated some Cy Young buzz this season due to his performance.

Ahead of the game, the Phillies have released the lineup that will try to take down the Astros. Per usual, slugger Kyle Schwarber will be leading off, but he will be playing first base in this game.

Following Schwarber is shortstop Trea Turner, who needs to get his bat going desperately. Star Bryce Harper will hit third, and he will replace Schwarber as the team's designated hitter for the matchup.

Luis Arraez will play at second base, hitting fourth for the Phillies. Arraez could be one of the biggest x-factors for this team down the stretch and into the playoffs.

Hitting fifth will be Bryson Stott, who takes over at third base today. Brandon Marsh follows him, hitting sixth and playing in left field.

Justin Crawford will be in center field today, hitting seventh for Philadelphia. Then catcher J.T Realmuto will hit eighth, followed by Bryan De La Cruz rounding out everything, batting ninth and playing in right field.

The Phillies badly need to take these next two games against the Astros, giving them some momentum heading into the weekend. Philadelphia will kick off a three-game series with the Braves after the Houston matchup, giving them a chance to get back into the division race.

Philadelphia is currently 81-64 on the year, sitting four games behind the Braves in the division. If this team can start to string together some wins, overtaking the NL East could be within their grasp.

First pitch for this game today will take place at 3:40 p.m. PT/6:40 p.m. ET from Citizens Bank Park.