Zack Wheeler's 10-K gem leads the Phillies to a 4-0 shutout of the Padres on July 1, 2025, as Bryce Harper makes his triumphant return from the IL.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Welcome back, Bryce. Welcome to the Zack Wheeler show. Citizens Bank Park was buzzing Tuesday night with the return of its MVP, but it was the team's ace who stole the spotlight, delivering a masterful 8-inning, 10-strikeout performance to blank the San Diego Padres 4-0 and extend the Phillies' NL East lead.
Zack Wheeler struck out 10 over 8 shutout innings without issuing a single walk.
It was pure dominance from the jump. Zack Wheeler was in complete control against San Diego, carving up their lineup for eight shutout innings. He scattered six hits, but more importantly, he didn't walk a single batter while striking out 10. This performance was a continuation of an incredible stretch for the Phillies' ace, who posted one of the league's best ERAs in June, allowing just two earned runs over his last five starts. When your number one pitcher is this locked in, it takes pressure off the entire team.
The box score might say 0-for-2, but Bryce Harper's return to the lineup was a clear victory. After nearly a month on the IL with wrist inflammation, seeing Harper step into the batter's box was a massive boost for the team and the fans. He worked a walk, got hit by a pitch, and looked comfortable at first base. His presence in the three-hole lengthens the lineup and changes how opposing pitchers have to navigate the heart of the order. The hits will come, but just having him back is a win in itself.
With Wheeler dealing, the offense didn't need to do much, but they provided timely support. Nick Castellanos provided the biggest blow with a solo home run. The Phillies also manufactured a run in classic fashion, with Bryson Stott drawing a walk, stealing second, and then hustling home on a Brandon Marsh grounder. It's exactly the kind of gritty, opportunistic baseball that wins championships. The offense could have had more, but a spectacular catch by Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill robbed Max Kepler of a three-run homer in the third, keeping the game tight until the Phils pulled away.
With their record now sitting at a tidy 49-35 and their NL East lead secure, the Phillies have started July on the right foot. The return of their superstar first baseman and the continued dominance of their ace is a potent combination. If this is a sign of things to come, the rest of the National League should be on high alert. The road to October is long, but tonight felt like a significant step forward.
