The Philadelphia Phillies just keep proving their mettle, notching a thrilling 4-3 victory against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday night. With this victory, they've managed to even the series, fueled by clutch performances from none other than Bryce Harper and Trea Turner. Their timely home runs not only secured the win but also set the stage for potentially taking the series from their divisional rivals.
After the game, Bryce Harper gave us some insight into his mindset during his crucial seventh-inning at-bat that levelled the score. In an interview with MLB Network's Jon Morosi, Harper exuded his usual candor and appreciation for the opportunity to play.
Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper joined @jonmorosi after tonight's #MLBNShowcase win to discuss coming through in big spots and going for the series win tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/bTNhq7v8Ab
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 10, 2025
Harper shared, “Just enjoy the moment either way, if it goes good or bad. Just grateful for the opportunity.
Always be grateful, never take it for granted. Go up there, try to take your best swing.
Have the best approach you can and hopefully good things will happen.” With the Phillies trailing 2-1 in the top of the seventh, Harper stepped up with one out and a runner on base.
He didn’t just step up; he delivered, sending a Dylan Lee pitch over the fence, flipping the script in Philadelphia's favor.
Yet, the Braves weren’t going to let the Phillies walk away without a fight. Austin Riley came back in the bottom of the inning with a solo home run, drawing the game level once more. However, it was Trea Turner who had the final say.
Bryce Harper rocket for the lead! 🚀 pic.twitter.com/I9KG8TY9m2
— MLB (@MLB) April 10, 2025
Turner’s performance was particularly noteworthy given the speculation surrounding his hefty contract. After having a somewhat underwhelming start with the Phillies, there’s been chatter about his consistency. However, his first home run of the season might just mark a turning point—a signal of promising contributions to come.
With this win, the Phillies boast an impressive eight victories early in the season, maintaining their dominance at the top of the NL East standings. On the flip side, the Braves are struggling, sitting at a rocky 2-9. While it's still early days, the start to a season can have playoff implications, and the Phillies' back-to-back homers might be the catalyst for a strong campaign ahead.
Looking back at last year, the Phillies clinched the division title with 95 wins but fell short against the New York Mets in the NLDS. This offseason, they brought in reinforcements like Max Kepler and Jesus Luzardo. However, in a division where Alfonso Marquez joining the Mets has raised the competition stakes, every edge counts.
As the Phillies wrap up their series with the Braves on Thursday, they set their sights on the St. Louis Cardinals.
The Cards came out strong at the start of the season, but have been on a slide since. Harper and Turner will aim to build on their momentum and lead their team with confidence past Atlanta.
