Phillies Gear Up for Postseason with Bohm Poised to Support Harper
The Philadelphia Phillies have officially secured the NL East title, clinching a spot in the postseason. With only six games remaining, they stand just two victories away—or two losses by the Los Angeles Dodgers—from earning a coveted first-round bye. As they prepare for October, the Phillies are fine-tuning their roster for a successful playoff run.
Return of Trea Turner and Alec Bohm’s Impact
A significant shift in the lineup is on the horizon with the anticipated return of Trea Turner. While Turner is still making strides towards his comeback, the team has already welcomed back Alec Bohm, who has returned from the injured list for the second time this season.
Bohm’s resurgence has been a breath of fresh air for the Phillies. Following a powerful series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, manager Rob Thomson acknowledged the need to elevate Bohm in the batting order. “I’ll probably have to move him up,” Thomson stated. “He’s on everything. Maybe that healthy shoulder is what we’re looking for.”
Bohm’s Impressive Series Performance
In his first series back, Bohm didn’t disappoint. He recorded a 2-for-5 outing in the opener, driving in three RBIs and scoring once. In the second game, he blasted a solo home run, marking his first long ball since August 17th, finishing that game with a 2-for-4 performance. He capped off the series with a flawless 4-for-4 performance, adding a walk for good measure. This resurgence is exactly what the Phillies needed, reinforcing Bohm’s position as a vital player in their lineup.
A Revamped Lineup Taking Shape
With Bohm’s return to form and Turner nearing his own comeback, the Phillies are on track to restore a familiar batting order. The anticipated lineup features Turner leading off, followed by Kyle Schwarber in the second spot, Bryce Harper third, and Bohm slated to hit cleanup. Depending on the opposing pitcher’s handedness, the remainder of the lineup will be adjusted accordingly.
Against left-handed pitchers, Harrison Bader or J.T. Realmuto could assume the fifth position, while righties may see Brandon Marsh occupy that spot, with Bader sixth, Realmuto seventh, Max Kepler eighth, and Bryson Stott rounding out the order in the ninth slot.
Optimism in the Final Stretch
As the Phillies approach the final week of the regular season, the return of key players is setting the stage for a potent lineup. The successful platoons in left and right field have proven effective, and if Bohm continues to deliver at the plate as he did against the Diamondbacks, he will firmly establish himself in the cleanup role for the postseason.
Bohm has previously held this pivotal position, though a mid-season slump had seen him relegated to lower in the order. With his recent performances and the backing of Thomson, he is ready to protect Harper once again as the Phillies gear up for their playoff push.
