The Phillies crushed the Mets 7-1 on June 22, 2025, to reclaim first place. Jesus Luzardo dominated and Kyle Schwarber homered in the crucial NL East victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
That's more like it. In a high-stakes Sunday night showdown with the division on the line, the Philadelphia Phillies didn't just beat the New York Mets; they dismantled them. A dominant 7-1 victory at a roaring Citizens Bank Park not only secured the series win but vaulted the Fightin' Phils back into their rightful place: sole possession of first place in the National League East.
The Phillies have posted the best record in the majors (34-18) since April 25.
The story of the night was Jesus Luzardo, who was simply unhittable. The left-hander carved up the Mets lineup for 6 2/3 scoreless innings, surrendering just three hits while striking out seven. He was in complete control, and the offense provided all the support he'd need. Kyle Schwarber did what he does best, launching a signature leadoff bomb, and Edmundo Sosa added a homer of his own to power the attack. The righty-heavy lineup came through with clutch hits, ensuring the Mets never had a chance to get back in the game.
This win feels even sweeter considering the challenges the team is facing. With Bryce Harper on the 10-day IL and ace Aaron Nola still on the 60-day IL, many wondered if the Phillies could keep pace. Instead, they've thrived. The starting rotation has been the bedrock of this success. Zack Wheeler is posting a career-high 32.5% strikeout rate, and Ranger Suarez has been a revelation with a 6-1 record and a sparkling 2.20 ERA. They've weathered the storm and proven this team's depth and determination.
While the starting pitching has been elite, it's not all smooth sailing. The bullpen remains a point of concern, ranking a lowly 23rd in win probability added. For the Phillies to make a deep postseason run, they'll need more consistency from the relief corps. As the team moves forward, the formula is clear: lean on the dominant starters, get Harper and Nola healthy, and hope the offense can continue to provide timely power. This team has shown they are the best in baseball over the last two months, but now they have to prove they can hold onto the division lead for good.
Reclaiming first place from the Mets is a massive statement. Now, the Phillies must build on this momentum. With a tough stretch of games ahead, every win counts. The mission is clear: keep the foot on the gas, get healthy, and solidify their position as the team to beat in the National League.
