Phillies Positioned Well for NLCS with Strong Starting Pitching and Full Strength Roster
By beating the Braves in four games rather than five, the Phillies positioned themselves even better for the NLCS than they did for the NLDS. With their ace, Zack Wheeler, on the mound for Game 1, the Phillies have a strong start to the series. Aaron Nola will start Game 2, and Ranger Suarez will start Game 3. However, the Phillies will need a No. 4 starter for the first time in the postseason, with the options being Taijuan Walker or Cristopher Sanchez who have not pitched in several weeks.
The NLCS is a Best-of-7 series, allowing the Phillies to use their top pitchers strategically. They can use Wheeler in Games 1 and 5, Nola in Games 2 and 6, and Suarez in Games 3 and 7. The Diamondbacks will also be relying heavily on their ace, Zac Gallen, for Game 1. Arizona’s pitching staff beyond Gallen is their weakness, with rookie Brandon Pfaadt struggling in his previous outings. The Phillies should have the pitching advantage with Suarez starting against Pfaadt.
Manager Rob Thomson expressed confidence in the team’s top three pitchers, stating, “I’d put them against everybody, to tell you the truth, especially right now.” As for the fourth starter, Thomson has not revealed which pitcher will start. Both Walker and Sanchez have had success during the regular season, but they will likely have a short leash in the NLCS.
The Diamondbacks, known for their athleticism and speed, present a challenge for the Phillies. They have dangerous hitters in Corbin Carroll, Christian Walker, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., and Ketel Marte. Their catcher, Gabriel Moreno, has been a standout player in the playoffs. The Diamondbacks love to run and utilize their speed, with multiple players stealing bases successfully.
Regarding the running game, the Phillies have handled it well in their previous playoff series. Pitchers have been quicker to the plate, Nola incorporating a slide step to control base stealers while disrupting hitters’ timing. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of speeding up to give catcher J.T. Realmuto a chance to throw out runners.
In terms of the roster, the Phillies will be at full strength for Game 1, with no significant injuries. Bryce Harper had a scare in the NLDS clincher when he was inadvertently struck on his surgically repaired elbow, but he quickly recovered and will be ready to play.
The NLCS between the Phillies and the Diamondbacks is set to begin with Game 1 on Monday night at Citizens Bank Park.