Phillies lose 6-3 to the Astros on June 24, 2025, as the bullpen falters late. A Kyle Schwarber homer and strong Suárez start weren't enough to stop Houston.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a night that started with so much promise but ended in familiar frustration. The Philadelphia Phillies dropped the series opener to the Houston Astros 6-3, undone by a bullpen that faltered in the critical late innings. Despite another massive home run from Kyle Schwarber and a solid outing from starter Ranger Suárez, the Phils couldn't hold on, tightening an already tense race in the NL East.
The Phillies' bullpen gave up four runs in the seventh and eighth innings, raising their season ERA to a worrying 4.12.
For six innings, Ranger Suárez looked every bit the ace, carving up the Astros lineup to the tune of eight strikeouts while allowing just two runs. The offense gave him the lead in the sixth, courtesy of a clutch two-run double from Alec Bohm. But the good vibes evaporated in the seventh when José Alvarado surrendered a go-ahead two-run blast to Yordan Alvarez. The Astros tacked on two more in the eighth, sealing a loss that felt like one slipped away. The offense couldn't muster a comeback, managing just six hits all night.
One consistent bright spot in the Phillies lineup remains Kyle Schwarber. He launched his 25th home run of the season, a solo shot that temporarily tied the game. As highlighted on the team's social media, Schwarberfest is in full swing, and his power remains a critical weapon, especially as the team navigates life without Bryce Harper. His consistent slugging keeps him among the league leaders and gives the team a chance to win on any given night.
Speaking of Harper, the waiting game continues. The superstar remains on the 10-day IL with no new updates on his potential return, leaving a significant hole in the lineup and a cloud of uncertainty over the team. The front office remained quiet on Tuesday, with no new roster moves, trades, or transactions announced. For now, the Phillies must find ways to win with the roster they have.
For fans looking for a silver lining, top pitching prospect Mick Abel provided one down in Triple-A. Despite the Lehigh Valley IronPigs taking a 4-3 loss, Abel was impressive, striking out seven batters over five innings while allowing two runs. His development remains a key storyline for the organization's future. Outfielder Simon Muzziotti also had a solid night, going 2-for-4 with a double and a steal, showcasing some speed and contact ability in the high minors.
With the lead in the NL East now a razor-thin one game, the Phillies need to flush this loss quickly. The formula of a strong start and a key homer is there, but it means nothing if the bridge to the ninth inning collapses. All eyes will be on the mound tomorrow to see if they can even the series against the Astros and give their beleaguered bullpen a much-needed reset.
