Bryce Harper's historic 2-HR, 1600th RBI night wasn't enough as the Phillies' bullpen faltered in a 6-5 loss to the Angels on July 19, 2025. Read more.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a night of conflicting emotions at Citizens Bank Park. On one hand, Bryce Harper put on an absolute clinic, launching two towering home runs and etching his name further into the MLB record books. On the other, the Phillies bullpen couldn't protect a late lead, ultimately falling 6-5 to the Los Angeles Angels in a frustrating nail-biter. It's the kind of loss that stings, a reminder that even MVP-level heroics can't always guarantee a win.
I'm just trying to put good swings on the ball and help the team win. Tough loss, but we'll bounce back tomorrow.
Just when you think Bryce Harper can't get any hotter, he finds another gear. The Phillies' superstar was the entire offense on Saturday, blasting solo shots in the 3rd and 7th innings for his 27th and 28th homers of the season. The second blast also marked a significant career milestone, as Harper recorded his 1,600th career RBI, becoming the youngest active player to reach that mark. His teammates and fans are in awe, with Kyle Schwarber tweeting 'Harper is a machine!' after the game. It's clear Harper is on a mission, but his individual brilliance underscored the team's inability to capitalize.
Zack Wheeler delivered another quality start, battling through 6 innings and allowing three runs while striking out eight. He kept the Phillies in the game, handing a slim lead over to the bullpen. Unfortunately, that's where things unraveled. While the offense, aside from Harper and a two-RBI double from Kyle Schwarber, remained quiet, the Angels' bats came alive late. A go-ahead homer by Taylor Ward off José Alvarado in the 8th inning proved to be the decisive blow, saddling the reliable lefty with a tough loss and sealing the Phillies' fate.
As the trade deadline inches closer, many fans are waiting for news of a potential roster shake-up. However, Saturday was a quiet day for the front office. There were no trades, roster moves, or significant updates from the farm system. For now, manager Rob Thomson will have to work with the current squad to navigate this crucial stretch of the season as they fight to maintain their narrow lead in the NL East.
This one hurts, no doubt about it. Wasting a historic performance from your best player is a tough pill to swallow. But as Harper himself said, the team has to bounce back tomorrow. With their lead in the division razor-thin, every game counts. The Phillies will look to salvage the series finale against the Angels and regain momentum before this playoff push gets any tighter. All eyes will be on the mound and the bullpen, hoping they can match the fire Harper is bringing to the plate.
