It was their fifth loss in their last six games.
There's no denying that manager Gabe Kapler's future is in serious question.
“We’re going to have plenty of time to reflect on the fact that we didn’t get to the postseason, which was the goal and the only thing that we thought about all season long,” Kapler told reporters following Tuesday afternoon's loss. “And we will get to that moment of reflection. We’ve felt some sting already. I think we’ll continue to feel some sting. But we have a game to get ready for right now and that’s important. For me, try to win every baseball game. There’s a lot of pride at stake.”
The Phillies also lost the nightcap of the doubleheader, allowing the Nationals to clinch a Wild Card spot.
With the playoffs out of reach, the Phillies now must focus on attempting to finish the season with a winning record. Over their final five games, the Phillies will need to finish 3-2.
Drew Smyly will start tonight's contest for the Phils while the Nats counter with veteran righty Anibal Sanchez.
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