Hittin' Season: A Philadelphia Phillies podcast

The Phillies had a harrowing weekend in Washington, DC. They lost their ace, Zack Wheeler, potentially for the season. Aaron Nola got shelled in his first game back in three months. The offense was inconsistent. We all though Jhoan Duran was dead for a few minutes there. And yet, the Phils split their weekend series and went 6-4 on their 10-game road trip. On Episode 1000!!! of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher spend the first half of the show allowing their dark thoughts to manifest before turning things over to the light for an optimistic look at the first place Phillies.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about how Nick Castellanos' struggles are at this point just a part of the Phillies offense, Aaron Nola's return to the rotation, the Phillies' head-shaking loss to the Nationals on Thursday, and Matt Strahm's Pokemon cards.

The Phillies lost the final two games in Cincinnati as the offense scored in just 2 of the 27 innings played against the Reds this week. But resist the urge to freak out! On Episode 998 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight looks at the disappearance of the offense and some concerns about Ranger Suarez' velocity drop. Also, John is joined by his 14-year-old son Ethan, a die-hard Nationals fan, to help preview this weekend's four-game series in Washington.

After another late inning win over the Reds Monday night, the Phillies roll continues with contributions up and down the lineup and from the most pleasant surprise of the season - Taijuan Walker. On Episode 997 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the weekend sweep of the Rangers, the remarkable turnaround of the Jhoan Duran-led bullpen, Zack Wheeler's velocity drop and the freefalling Mets.

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about Zack Wheeler's shoulder scare, what some old friends can add to the Phillies as they return, and what lies ahead for the Phillies on their road trip that starts in Texas against the Rangers.

When will the Phillies call up stud prospects Andrew Painter and/or Justin Crawford? On this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight chats with The Morning Call's Tom Housenick about the progress of Painter and Crawford and gives an update on Aaron Nola's rehab and David Robertson's progress to the big leagues. Also, the Phils take two out of three from Baltimore but fail to sweep. John is done piling on Max Kepler, and throws some flowers at Taijuan Walker as well. 00:00 - Show Introduction 02:14 - The Phillies Are Having Trouble Sweeping Teams 08:50 - Max Kepler's Last Gasp, John's Done Piling On 17:19 - Throwing Some Love At Taijuan Walker 20:28 - Ranger Suarez' Up and Down Season 24:47 - Introduction to the Iron Pigs and Key Prospects w/ Tom Housenick 25:00 - Andrew Painter's Progress in AAA 34:46 - Justin Crawford's Performance and Future 36:54 - Update on Aaron Nola's Rehab 39:04 - David Robertson Update

On Episode 994 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of SB Nation's The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and SABR's Liz Roscher discuss the Phillies' series win over Detroit and their Monday night 13-3 blowout of the Baltimore Orioles, highlighting key players like Kyle Schwarber and Christopher Sanchez. They delve into the MVP candidacy of Schwarber, compare his stats with Shohei Ohtani, and analyze the outfield situation, particularly the struggles of Max Kepler. The conversation also touches on Zack Wheeler's recent performance and injury updates for the Phils. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Game Overview 02:46 - Phillies' Performance and Player Highlights 05:27 - Kyle Schwarber's MVP Candidacy 08:37 - Comparing Stats: Schwarber vs. Ohtani 11:34 - Contract Talks and Future Considerations 14:30 - Outfield Dynamics and Player Decisions 21:09 - Max Kepler's Struggles and Stats 23:31 - Outfield Decisions and Roster Moves 25:56 - Power Surge: Phillies' Offense in the Second Half 29:29 - The Importance of Comeback Wins 33:42 - The Jhoan Duran Effect: A New Closer's Impact 39:26 - Christopher Sanchez: Rising Star in the Rotation 47:13 - Concerns About Zach Wheeler 54:28 - Injury Updates and Final Thoughts

On Episode 993 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the Phillies' trade for outfielder Harrison Bader and what it could mean for the outfield situation over the season's final two months. Also, did Dave Dombrowski do enough, and who were the biggest winners across baseball at the deadline?

On Episode 992 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis and Justin Klugh break down the Phillies' newest closer, Jhoan Duran, for prospects Eduardo Tait and Mick Abel. Why he's a perfect fit at a very fair price. Also, Dave Dombrowski says he's not done yet, looking to add an outfield bat? What could be next on the horizon?

On Episode 991 of Hittin’ Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight’s John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and editor of SABR’s Baseball Research Journal Liz Roscher offer their predictions on what Dave Dombrowski will do at the Trade Deadline this Thursday. Relievers? Bats? Both? Neither? Also, Bryce Harper goes nose-to-nose with Rob Manfred in a heated clubhouse meeting over a potential salary cap, and we recap a mostly good series in the Bronx and a bad start to their series in Chicago Monday night. Takeaways The Phillies are struggling to maintain consistent performance, especially against weaker teams. JT Real Muto's resurgence has significantly improved the Phillies' lineup. The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to prioritize bullpen help. Bryce Harper's vocal stance against a salary cap highlights player concerns about management's intentions. The dynamics between players and management are tense, especially with Rob Manfred's recent actions. The potential trade market is thinning, making it harder for the Phillies to acquire top talent. Players are increasingly aware of the economic challenges facing baseball and are willing to fight for their rights. The role of former players in management can complicate relationships with current players. The Phillies' management must balance short-term needs with long-term player development. The upcoming trade deadline could significantly impact the team's playoff chances. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Current Situation 04:47 - Trade Deadline Insights and Player Performance 09:49 - The Impact of Key Players on the Phillies' Lineup 14:53 - Analyzing the Phillies' Trade Needs and Strategies 19:47 - Recent Trade Rumors and Market Dynamics 24:48 - Injury Updates and Their Implications for Trades 29:30 - Final Thoughts on the Trade Deadline and Team Prospects 36:17 - Bryce Harper vs. Rob Manfred: Tensions Rise 42:29 - The Impact of Former Players on Current Negotiations Keywords Phillies, trade deadline, Rob Manfred, Bryce Harper, JT Real Muto, MLB, baseball, player performance, labor issues, team dynamics

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss the "passionate, productive" conversation reported between the Phillies and MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, as well as their Jesus Luzardo concerns. Then, Tim Jackson of Baseball Prospectus talks about Phillies trade deadline scenarios and Andrew Mearns of Pinstripe Alley tells us what to expect from the Yankees this weekend.

On Episode 989 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps Wednesday night's awful loss to the Red Sox and tries to get to the bottom of Jesus Luzardo's struggles. Also, Cristopher Sanchez is now a bona fide ace, John goes inside the numbers on what makes him so special. And what are the latest Trade Rumors surrounding the Phils? John breaks down all the latest. Could the Phils move Ranger Suarez or Luzardo this summer? Show Notes: Disastrous loss in the finale Phillies blow a 5-0 lead, HRs from Schwarber, Harper, Castellanos & Stott, Realmuto It's the Phils’ first loss in a game they homered five or more times since June 10, 2019. They haven't won three in a row since June 18-20. Blame Realmuto & Luzardo, who had a no-hitter going into the 5th, gives us 6 in the 5th after walking in two runs then serving up a grand slam FELL APART WHILE PITCHING FROM THE STRETCH AGAIN Thomson said they have to keep digging and working on what’s wrong with Luzardo, specifically in the stretch Since June 11, opponents have hit .192/.252/.253 with 37 strikeouts and eight walks when there is no one on base against Luzardo. With runners on base, those numbers jump to .339/.443/.576, 16 strikeouts and 11 walks. (Gelb) Gelb says he went back to his old mechanics last night, but it still didn’t work Jesus Luzardo says he is working day and night to fix his issues and he says they need to be fixed. He says teams are hitting him hard when he is pitching out of the stretch. He says it is not on JT Realmuto losing that foul ball pop-up. He says he and other Phillies lost it as well. Manager Rob Thomson says Jesus Luzardo lost his concentration. Phillies now 3-8 in Luzardo’s last 11 starts They’ve now given Luzardo 3-0, 4-1 and 5-0 leads in July only to have him lose all 3 of them. He posted a 2.15 ERA in his first 11 starts. He allowed 20 runs in his next two. He made significant mechanical changes when pitching from the stretch, and it’s resulted in only a 4.79 ERA over his last nine starts. UNLESS LUZARDO FIGURES THIS OUT, THEIR ENTIRE OFF-SEASON WILL HAVE BEEN A COMPLETE AND UTTER FAILURE The good news is this is a mechanical issue… which would indicate to me it CAN be fixed… but can they fix it in time? PITCH TIPPING: The Red Sox are renowned for doing this. Two pitches later, Story doubled home a run. THIS WAS NOT A STRONG ROB THOMSON GAME Luzardo should have been pulled after the second straight bases loaded walk, but got Jordan Romano up too late… after the game, Thomson admitted that was a mistake Pinch-ran Weston Wilson for Kyle Schwarber in the 10th after Schwarber’s RBI single… Wilson, who is not fast… thrown out trying to steal 2nd to end the 10th With Wilson already used, Max Kepler had to face a lefty reliever and watched a called strike three to end the game in the 11th, instead of having Wilson available to pinch hit Rob Thomson on the 5th inning tonight: Said they have to keep digging and working on what’s wrong with Luzardo, specifically in the stretch Harper’s home run was the 350th of his career Bryce Harper tonight became the youngest of the 8 active players to reach 350 career home runs joining Giancarlo Stanton, Mike Trout, Paul Goldschmidt, Manny Machado, Freddie Freeman, Nolan Arenado, Aaron Judge. Kyle Schwarber's 34 HR are the 3rd-most through 102 games in Phillies franchise history, behind only Ryan Howard in 2006 and Mike Schmidt in 1979 -- both had 36. Cristopher Sanchez is a TRUE ACE: https://www.thegoodphight.com/2025/7/23/24472912/cristopher-sanchez-is-a-real-bona-fide-cy-young-contender WHEELER & SANCHEZ This gives the Phillies a leg-up in the postseason No one can match what the Phillies can do in the playoffs STARK ON SCHWARBER Says he believes Schwarber will be back here 4 years, $100 million is the number… how is he going to have a better deal four years AFTER the first free agent contract??? TRADE DEADLINE LATEST: Jayson Stark on 975 the Fanatic w/ Mikey Miss: Dombrowski wants to use...

In this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss the signing of David Robertson, the state of the Phillies' bullpen, Bryce Harper's offensive surge and Monday's night's bizarre walk-off victory. They also dive into a trade deadline draft, evaluating potential players the Phillies could acquire to strengthen their roster. Also, why hasn't Justin Crawford been called up yet? Takeaways: David Robertson returns to the Phillies for a third time. The Phillies' bullpen struggles with a 430 ERA. Recent game highlights include a walk-off win against the Red Sox. The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to make moves. Players like Eugenio Suarez and Mason Miller are potential targets. Bryce Harper is showing signs of a strong second half. The team is looking for a dynamic leadoff hitter. Justin Crawford could be an internal solution for the outfield. The importance of strong starting pitching for the Phillies' success. The need for a consistent offensive performance from the team. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season 02:29 - David Robertson's Signing and Its Implications 05:24 - Evaluating the Bullpen and Future Moves 08:29 - Game Highlights: Walk-off Win Against the Red Sox 11:20 - Bryce Harper's Performance and Impact 14:33 - Looking Ahead: The Phillies' Playoff Contention 22:25 - Phillies' Offensive Needs and Player Injuries 24:14 - Concerns About Starting Pitchers Jesus Luzardo & Ranger Suarez 26:26 - Upcoming Challenges Against the Yankees 28:31 - Highlight Moments: Kyle Schwarber's Grand Slam 29:52 - Assessing the Phillies' Performance and Consistency 32:03 - Trade Deadline Player Draft! 01:05:46 - Final Thoughts

Kyle Schwarber put on quite the show at the All-Star Game and the trade deadline is still weeks away. Meanwhile, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about who needs to step it up for the Phillies offense in the second half, and break down the Phillies' first opponents, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

On Episode 986 of Hittin’ Season, powered by WHYY, host John Stolnis of The Good Phight marvels at the heroics of Kyle Schwarber in the All Star Game Home Run Derby Swing-Off that won him MVP honors of the Midsummer Classic. Also, why MLB was correct in not naming Cristopher Sanchez and Ranger Suarez All Stars and how a low-key All Star Break for most of the Phils is a blessing in disguise. Then John delivers 10 predictions for the second half and answers some Hot Stove mailbag questions.

On Episode 985 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, review the first half of the Phillies' 2025 season and wonder, how are the Phillies in first place? Also, John, Justin and Liz dive into a trivia challenge centered around the Philadelphia Phillies and their All-Star Game history, flowing through various milestones, memorable moments, and anecdotes from past All-Star Game. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season 02:40 Home Run Derby Highlights and Player Performances 05:28 Phillies' First Half Performance and Team Dynamics 08:42 Strengths and Weaknesses of the Phillies' Roster 11:37 Reflections on the First Half and Comparisons to Other Teams 14:46 Grading the Players: Starting Pitching and Offense 17:37 Bryce Harper's Impact and Expectations 20:33 Assessing the Bullpen and Overall Team Performance 23:30 Final Thoughts and All-Star Trivia 40:11 Trade Deadline Predictions 42:39 All-Star Game Trivia Fun 53:38 Milestones and Memorable Moments 59:16 All-Star Game Trivia Begins 01:02:18 Milestones and Historical Context 01:05:07 The Evolution of the Vet Stadium 01:07:43 Home Run Derby Highlights 01:11:31 Memorable All-Star Moments 01:15:17 Final Trivia Challenge and Wrap-Up

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about some recent whispers on Phillies trade deadline moves, particularly in the bullpen, as well as what lies ahead for the Phillies in San Diego this weekend. Then Mitch Rupert comes by to reset expectations—just a little—for Andrew Painter.

On Episode 983 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY in Philadelphia, host John Stolnis of the Good Phight is joined by Crossing Broad's Luke Arcaini to discuss Bryce Harper's long-awaited coming out party in Wednesday's 13-0 shellacking of the Giants in their house of horrors, San Francisco. Also, a horrific walk-off loss, trade deadline talk, Andrew Painter's timeline, and lots more!

On Episode 982 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the historic pitching performance of Zack Wheeler and why the Phillies cannot waste his performance, and the starting rotation, by being passive at the trade deadline. Also, thoughts on All Stars Wheeler and Kyle Schwarber, snubs, and concerns over Bryce Harper's wrist continue.

Justin Klugh talks about the Phillies' series win over the Padres. Then baseball economics and labor reporter Jen Ramos Eisen discusses the recent purchase of the Reading Fightin' Phils by Diamond Baseball Holdings, and Wick Terrell of Red Reporter drops by to talk about the Phillies' weekend opponent, the Cincinnati Reds.