With their 5-3 defeat against the Atlanta Braves on Friday, the Philadelphia Phillies now have a 10-game losing streak. Only five times since 1972 has the team lost ten or more consecutive games, and this is the franchise’s worst losing run since a 11-game losing streak in September 1999.
With an 8-18 record through 26 games, Philadelphia is off to its worst start since 2002. The team is also 10. 5 games behind first place in the NL East, its biggest margin at this point in the season since 1997. With World Series aspirations, a squad with a $300 million payroll now has the worst run differential in the league, at negative 53.
The defeat on Friday followed a familiar pattern. After home runs by Trea Turner and Bryce Harper, the Phillies led 3-2 at the start of the sixth inning, but the game fell apart at the end. Atlanta was able to take advantage of rookie pitcher Andrew Painter, who had thrown 81 pitches in five innings, with two outs in the sixth. Michael Harris II turned the tide with a bases-clearing double that was clocked at 104. 8 mph and had an anticipated batting average of . 890. Later on, a wild throw gave up another run, which changed a one-run advantage into a 5-3 deficit.
With relievers warming up, manager Rob Thomson decided against making a change and maintained Painter on the mound, a decision that turned out to be a mistake. The Braves, who went into the game leading the major leagues in runs, wins, and run differential, took full advantage of the situation.
Philadelphia’s offensive problems are still the same. In 15 games, the squad has scored three or fewer runs, and they have a 2-13 record in those games. Additionally, they are 2-17 behind after six innings. This year, the Phillies have only eight strikeouts and four hits in 18 at-bats with the bases full.
Not even one positive has resulted in a win. With a . 981 OPS away from home, Harper’s road production remains robust, whereas Turner, who had a . 225 batting average heading into Friday, hit a home run and got on base twice. Nevertheless, despite making good contact, Philadelphia only managed to score three runs.
The focus is now on Zack Wheeler, who will be making his debut in 2026 this Saturday. Following shoulder surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome, the three-time All-Star hasn’t thrown since last August. The Phillies are seeking for any signs of a turnaround during a streak that has not been seen this century, as his return occurs at the height of a seasonal slump.
