The Philadelphia Phillies are shaking things up at the plate. After being shut out in back-to-back games in San Francisco, the team returns to Citizens Bank Park tonight looking to snap a 20-inning scoreless drought. Manager Rob Thomson has responded to the offensive struggles by revamping the lineup for the start of a crucial nine-game homestand.
Facing the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night, the Phillies will feature a new look in the heart of their order. Brandon Marsh, who has been a bright spot early with a .275 average, gets the nod in the coveted clean-up spot. This move rewards his consistent production while the team searches for more runs.
Other key adjustments see Alec Bohm, who had been batting fourth, moving down to the seventh spot after a slow start. Bryson Stott will hold his ground in the five-hole, hoping to find his rhythm. The Phillies' overall offensive numbers tell the story—an OPS of .658 ranking 11th in the NL—highlighting why these changes were necessary.
On the mound, Jesus Luzardo (1-1, 4.97 ERA) gets the start for Philadelphia, tasked with setting the tone against Arizona's Michael Soroka (2-0, 0.90 ERA). First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. on NBCSP+. For a team with postseason aspirations, breaking out of this offensive slump at home is the immediate priority.
