Phillies vs Athletics predictions
If you’ve been following the Philadelphia Phillies lately, you know they've got some serious heat at the plate and on the mound. Looking at this matchup, Trea Turner feels like he’s primed for another standout game—he’s just so consistent when it comes to reaching base and swiping bags. I can easily see him putting together a multi-hit performance and once he’s on, you know crafty things can happen on the basepaths. Kyle Schwarber’s been all about the long ball this season; I wouldn’t be surprised if he connects for at least one homer, especially in a park that's been friendly to lefty power. And don’t sleep on Alec Bohm’s ability to drive runs in—he’s quietly having a solid year and should slot right in as a key RBI guy. On the mound, Zack Wheeler brings a steady hand, and there's every reason to think he’ll rack up strikeouts and limit the damage through at least mid-game.
Now, the Athletics might be sorting through a bit of a rough spot at home but there are still some bright spots worth spotlighting. Jacob Wilson has worked his way into the league-leader conversation in batting average, and I really like his chances against the Phillies to notch a couple more hits and maybe spark a rally. Brent Rooker’s found his power stroke this year, so if the A’s want to keep pace, he’ll be counted on to deliver some extra-base hits or a crucial long ball. Tyler Soderstrom’s been solid at driving runners home, too, and with a couple of guys getting on ahead of him, he looks poised for at least one RBI. As for Jeffrey Springs, if he can settle in early and keep the ball in the park, the Athletics have a shot to keep things close.
Taking it all in, the Phillies are riding a pretty impressive wave this season and just seem to have more ways to win right now. With Wheeler dealing and the offense clicking—especially with Turner and Schwarber swinging hot bats—the Phillies feel like the team to beat in this one. Meanwhile, the Athletics do have the pieces to make noise, particularly if Wilson and Rooker get going, but the edge goes to Philadelphia in terms of depth and recent form. Should be an entertaining matchup, but my gut says the Phillies keep their momentum rolling and pick up the win at Sutter Health Park.
