Phillies punch ticket to the postseason, inch closer to NL East title

The Phillies put their stamp on the postseason Friday night, unleashing a six-run fourth inning that propelled them to a 12-2 rout of the New York Mets. With 17 hits ringing out, this victory not only clinched a playoff berth but also marked the team’s third consecutive trip to October—an impressive turnaround after a nine-year absence from the postseason.

 

Alec Bohm had four hits and four RBIs, including a three-run homer, in the win. Nick Castellanos chipped in with three hits and two RBIs, while J.T. Realmuto added a two-run homer.

 

Bryce Harper and company now sit with a Magic Number of two to clinch the club's first NL East title since 2011.

 

In anticipation of that potential celebration, the team chose a low-key approach following Friday's win, saving the real revelry for when they can officially pop the champagne for first place.

 

The Phillies, hunting for their third World Series title, took control of the division lead from Atlanta on May 3 and haven’t looked back. With a record of 92-62, they now hold the best mark in Major League Baseball, positioning themselves for a coveted first-round bye. 

 

This marks only the third time the Phillies have made the playoffs three years in a row, having previously accomplished the feat in 1976-78 and 2007-11.