CHICAGO, Illinois – Alec Bohm’s stellar performance on the field not only secured his spot as the starting third baseman for the National League in the All-Star Game but also contributed to the Philadelphia Phillies maintaining the best record in baseball as of July 4th. With a batting average of .299, 28 doubles, 11 home runs, and 70 RBIs, Bohm has been a key player leading the Phillies to a season-best record of 57-29.
Teammate Trea Turner, also an All-Star, saw a significant improvement in his hitting performance from the previous year, effectively sparking rallies throughout the game. In a crucial moment in the top of the sixth inning, Bohm hit a 415-foot home run, briefly putting the Phillies in the lead against the Cubs. Despite the Cubs tying the game in the bottom of the seventh, Turner and Bohm’s singles in the eighth inning set up a sequence of plays that secured a 5-3 victory for the Phillies.
The absence of key players like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber due to injury did not deter the Phillies from clinching the series win. Manager Rob Thomson commended Bohm’s growth and performance, emphasizing the hard work and dedication that earned him the All-Star starting spot. Bohm’s journey from his early days in spring training to now has been marked by significant progress and development.
Pitcher Zack Wheeler’s solid performance, though laborious at times, limited the Cubs to two runs over six innings. Despite not receiving a decision, Wheeler’s consistent pitching has positioned him as a strong contender for the Cy Young award this season. The Phillies’ catching duo of Rafael Marchan and Garrett Stubbs has also made significant contributions at the plate, especially with J.T. Realmuto’s absence due to injury.
The Phillies’ success in the series reflects their overall performance this season, with a strong series record of 18-7-5. As they aim for their 10th sweep of the season, the team looks towards National League Pitcher of the Month Cristopher Sanchez to continue their winning streak. Sanchez, on a remarkable 16 consecutive scoreless innings streak, will face Jameson Taillon in the upcoming game.