It was a Humpty Dumpty ride for the Philadelphia Phillies as they made it to the playoffs on a Wild Card spot. Given they were last season’s World Series challengers, it was not the best way to make it to the postseason. The Phillies later on proved why. They dominated the wild card series and later surpassed their division champions to make it to the NLCS, having another solid game against the motivated Arizona Diamondbacks.
Notably, it was a big day for the Phillies as they looked to make a perfect start on the road to the grand finale for the second time in a row. The presence of the Kelce brothers amongst the thousands of faithful added to the occasion. The Phils understood the same and gave the result that mattered the most to the fans, also Bryce Harper, who is celebrating his 31st birthday.
Philadelphia Phillies Continue Their Winning Streak With a Win Against Arizona Diamondbacks
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Taking a clue and motivation from the Texas Rangers, the Philadelphia Phillies played a great game against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 1. They dominated the game from the start, all thanks to the Homers from Bryce Harper and Nick Castellanos.
The Phillies turn 2 to secure the Game 1 win!#RedOctober pic.twitter.com/5xub4UaNIj
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 17, 2023
Both these superstar players, along with Kyle Schwarber, contributed with three runs to give their team a dominating lead. Though the Snakes made a comeback with three, it was not enough for them to stretch it. The game ended in favor of the Phillies with a score of 5-3 after a double play ended the innings for the D-Backs.
It was a significant result and was watched by over 40000 people in the stands. A Post from a sports reporter, David Malandra Jr, read “Attendance for #Phillies Game 1 of #NLCS at Citizens Bank Park is 45,396.”
Attendance for #Phillies Game 1 of #NLCS at Citizens Bank Park is 45,396 #RedOctober pic.twitter.com/5zWICeZ1Xl
— David Malandra Jr (@DaveMReports) October 17, 2023
This fulfilled the notion of ‘Red October’ coined by the fans. Bryce Harper, who celebrated his birthday, would also agree with it. But his eyes will be on the upcoming games as he looks for his first World Series.
A Perfect Start Which Bryce Harper Hoped For
In the postseason stage, every game is different, and the past rarely matters here. The world has seen it on many occasions, the latest being the win of the D-Backs over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
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The Phillies and Bryce Harper are aware of this and performed at their best. Especially Harper, who contributed both in the field and at the plate on his birthday.
Born in October. Born for October.
Happy 31st birthday to Bryce Harper! pic.twitter.com/0drUfWf8uj
— MLB (@MLB) October 16, 2023
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However, the job is not done for him. Having lost the 2022 World Series, he understands the value of each game. Moreover, the Diamondbacks are not a team to be taken lightly. Now the challenge for the Phillies and Harper would be to maintain their lead to make it to the Championship series. Will they be able to do so? What are your thoughts on this? Share in the comments.