Despite having so many power hitters, the Philadelphia Phillies haven’t hit for much power this season.
In 2023, the Phillies were third in the National League in home runs (220), slugging percentage (.438), and doubles (291). Their explosive lineup nearly propelled them to their second consecutive World Series appearance when the bats went silent in the final two games of the NLCS.
Despite returning essentially the same lineup, Philadelphia has had wildly different results this season. The Phillies were last in doubles (8), tenth in home runs (11) and thirteenth in slugging percentage (.342) heading into Thursday’s game.
When questioned about his team’s power outage ahead of Thursday’s series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia manager Rob Thomson did not appear concerned. Instead, he responded with a bold prediction that his guys “gonna slug.”
The Phillies immediately proved Thomson correct, hitting three home runs in a 5-1 victory over the Pirates. Alec Bohm, Brandon Marsh, and Bryson Stott all scored for Philadelphia, accounting for all five of the team’s runs. It was a vintage Phillies performance, capped off with a great outing by starting pitcher Ranger Suarez.
Thomson was correct. When you have Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Trea Turner in your lineup, it’s only a matter of time before they start hitting.
Perhaps this game will break Philadelphia out of its power slump. The next nine games will be played at homer-friendly Citizens Bank Park, which should help, especially with temperatures anticipated to reach the 70s next week.
With the weather becoming warmer, don’t be shocked if the Phillies’ bats follow suit.
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