MLB
Phillies vs Diamondbacks NLCS National League Championship Series preview, pitchers, lineups, stats
For the second consecutive year, the Philadelphia Phillies have made it to the NLCS, where they will face the Arizona Diamondbacks.
The Phillies secured their spot in the NLCS after a hard-fought victory over the Atlanta Braves, with a final score of 3-1 in the National League Division Series. Notably, this marks the second year that Philadelphia has sent their NL East rivals packing from the playoffs, showcasing their postseason prowess.
This impending NLCS matchup is significant for the Phillies and the Diamondbacks, as the two teams have never crossed paths in postseason history. The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the showdown between these two formidable contenders.
Pitching Matchups and Lineup
The NLCS is sure to deliver thrilling clashes on the mound. The probable starting pitchers for the first few games are as follows:
Game 1: Zack Wheeler (1-0, 2.08 ERA) vs. Zac Gallen (2-0, 3.18 ERA)
Game 2: Aaron Nola (2-0, 1.42 ERA) vs. Merrill Kelly (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Game 3: Ranger Suarez vs. Brandon Pfaadt (0-0, 3.86 ERA)
Game 4: TBD
Game 5: If necessary, TBD
Game 6: If required, TBD
Game 7: If needed, TBD
The Philly Fanatic and the Challenge Awaiting the Diamondbacks
Philadelphia fans are passionate and sometimes hostile to opposing teams, making Citizens Bank Park a fortress for the Phillies. The Diamondbacks will feel the intensity of this fan base from the moment they arrive in Philadelphia, from the hotel to the stadium and beyond.
Playing in a city renowned for passionate fans will test the Diamondbacks’ mettle and composure, but it also offers an invaluable opportunity for their young team. This playoff matchup is precisely what the Diamondbacks need to gain valuable experience and witness the power of unwavering fan support.
As the series unfolds, it will be a test of character and resilience for the Diamondbacks, offering a glimpse into the passionate heart of Philadelphia’s baseball community. This NLCS promises to be a captivating chapter in the postseason, where the crowd’s energy and the players’ determination collide, creating a spectacle of baseball at its finest.