Phillies beat the Athletics 4-3 on July 4, 2025, for their 8th straight win as Bryce Harper returns. Tanner Banks gets the save in a thrilling finish.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What's better than fireworks on the Fourth of July? How about an eighth straight win and the return of your MVP? The Philadelphia Phillies gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about on Friday, surviving a late scare to beat the Oakland Athletics 4-3 and pushing their incredible winning streak to eight games. And as if that wasn't enough, Bryce Harper was officially reinstated from the injured list, ready to bring his thunder back to the heart of the lineup.
Eight straight wins. The hottest team in baseball just got its best player back.
This one wasn't a blowout, but a win is a win. The Phillies methodically built a 4-0 lead, thanks in part to some timely hitting. Johan Rojas continued his hot streak, dropping a crucial RBI single into right field, and Trea Turner did what he does best, lacing a single up the middle to drive in another run. The game got tight in the ninth when Oakland's Nick Curts hit a home run to make it a one-run game, but the bullpen door swung open for Tanner Banks. With the game on the line, Banks slammed the door shut, striking out Butler to lock down his first save of the season and send the fans home happy.
The biggest cheer of the day might have come before the first pitch. The Phillies officially reinstated Bryce Harper from the 10-day injured list, a move that sends a jolt of energy through the entire organization. While the offense has been clicking during this win streak, adding Harper's bat back to the lineup makes this team downright terrifying for opposing pitchers. To make room on the roster, the club designated infielder Buddy Kennedy for assignment. It's a tough part of the business, but getting Harper back is the priority.
Winning eight games in a row takes a toll on a pitching staff. To help manage the workload, the Phillies recalled right-hander Seth Johnson from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. This move provides manager Rob Thomson with another option out of the bullpen, ensuring the team has fresh arms ready to go as they look to keep this incredible streak alive through the weekend series.
With an eight-game winning streak, their MVP back in the fold, and a knack for finding ways to win, the Phillies are firing on all cylinders. The vibes are immaculate. Now, they'll look to make it nine in a row tomorrow against the A's. This team isn't just winning; they're building the kind of momentum that defines a championship season. Buckle up, Philly.
