The Philadelphia Phillies face a critical moment in their National League Division Series (NLDS) against the New York Mets, trailing 2-1 after a disappointing 7-2 loss in Game 3. Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos acknowledged the gravity of the situation, recognizing that another loss would mean elimination.
He stressed the importance of embracing the moment, noting that if the Phillies can secure a win in Game 4, the Mets would not want to return to Philadelphia for a Game 5, where the Phillies would have a significant advantage.
One of the key reasons for Castellanos’ confidence is the Phillies’ strong home-field advantage, having posted a 54-27 record at Citizens Bank Park during the regular season. If the series extends to a fifth game, the Phillies would likely start ace Zack Wheeler, who performed well in Game 1 before the bullpen let a lead slip away. This makes a potential Game 5 a promising scenario for the Phillies, although they first need to overcome the Mets in Game 4.
Offensive struggles have been a major issue for the Phillies, particularly early in games. Philadelphia has only managed one run in the first five innings across the three games so far, highlighting their difficulties in generating offense against the Mets’ starting pitchers. This is compounded by the fact that their only early run came from a Kyle Schwarber leadoff homer in Game 1. To have any chance of extending the series, the Phillies will need to find ways to spark their stagnant offense.
Castellanos, who was the hero in Game 2, had an opportunity to change the course of Game 3 when he came to bat with two runners on in the sixth inning. However, his double play ended the Phillies’ rally attempt, and the Mets extended their lead in the following inning, effectively sealing the game. Castellanos and the Phillies’ offense, currently struggling with a .204/.304/.337/.641 slash line, must step up in Game 4 if they want to avoid elimination.
Despite the tough situation, Castellanos remains optimistic, stating that this moment is as close to “death” as the team will get, which should drive them to play with a sense of urgency. With everything on the line in Game 4, the Phillies need to leave it all on the field, or Castellanos’ warning about avoiding a return trip to Philadelphia will be irrelevant.
