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With playoff lives at stake, Phillies shuffle weekend rotation, lineup

PHILADELPHIA -- Saturday night’s Phillies game against Tampa Bay should have been a tuneup for the postseason. Instead, it was about survival. Now, Sunday's is as well.

Published: Saturday, 26 September 2026 at 10:23 PM
With playoff lives at stake, Phillies shuffle weekend rotation, lineup
Key Things to Know
  • The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 12-1 on Saturday night.
  • Aaron Nola started on short rest and lasted only one inning, allowing three runs on four hits.
  • The Phillies need a victory in Sunday's regular-season finale to secure a National League Wild Card berth.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Philadelphia Phillies suffered a 12-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday night, leaving them with one final game to clinch a National League Wild Card berth. Starting on short rest for the first time in his career, pitcher Aaron Nola struggled and lasted only one inning. Nola allowed four hits, three runs, and one home run on 21 pitches before being replaced by Tanner Banks.

Phillies interim manager Don Mattingly reshuffled the lineup, moving Trea Turner to leadoff, Kyle Schwarber to second, and Bryce Harper to first base with Luis Arraez sidelined by an ankle sprain. Mattingly confirmed Zack Wheeler remains scheduled to start Sunday's regular-season finale on normal rest, while left-hander Jesús Luzardo could also pitch following his shoulder inflammation.

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