Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – The Philadelphia Phillies are on a roll with team success taking the spotlight, but individual achievements are also piling up for the players as they push forward with 11 games remaining before the All-Star break.
In an announcement made on Wednesday, Major League Baseball revealed that both National League monthly accolades were bestowed upon Phillies players. Bryce Harper was named Player of the Month, while Cristopher Sanchez earned the Pitcher of the Month title.
Harper’s consecutive Player of the Month awards mark a significant achievement for the outfielder, who had never previously secured the honor. The Phillies’ pitching staff also shone brightly, with Sanchez becoming the second pitcher on the team to win the monthly award in three months.
The recognition of Sanchez’s pitching prowess came as a pleasant surprise to team manager Rob Thomson, who praised the pitcher’s dedication and hard work. Thomson shared the news with the team before a game, evoking a jubilant reaction from the players, particularly towards Sanchez’s accomplishment.
Sanchez’s impressive performance in June, with a 3-0 record, 1.64 ERA, and 0.82 WHIP, solidified his standing as a rising star in the Phillies’ rotation. The extension of his contract just weeks prior seemed to fuel his success, as he delivered stellar outings against the Diamondbacks and the Marlins.
Thomson highlighted Sanchez’s humility as a defining trait, recounting a heartwarming interaction between the pitcher and a stadium staff member that showcased Sanchez’s kindness and approachability. Despite stiff competition, Sanchez emerged victorious in the race for the monthly pitching award.
Harper’s exceptional offensive display throughout the month, batting .374 with a 1.166 OPS, secured his place as the Player of the Month over formidable competitor Shohei Ohtani. The Phillies outfielder’s standout numbers, including 10 doubles, seven home runs, and 16 RBIs, solidified his claim to the prestigious award.
In addition to his monthly accolade, Harper’s commanding performance at the plate earned him a starting spot at first base for the National League in the upcoming All-Star Game. The slugger’s consistent excellence has made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Phillies’ success this season, setting the stage for a dazzling All-Star showcase.