💂 Rob McElhenney ceremonial ⚾️ 1st double play with Chase Utley + Bryce Harper in London 🇬🇧

Via MLB Europe

Phillies vs. Mets: Game 2 Preview in London

LONDON—The Philadelphia Phillies look to sweep their two-game series against the New York Mets in London today after a commanding 7-2 victory in Game 1 at London Stadium. This international matchup marks a historic occasion for both teams, with the Phillies playing outside North America for the first time.

Game 1 Recap
In Game 1, Phillies starter Ranger Suarez became the first pitcher in MLB to reach 10 wins this season, delivering 5.2 innings of two-run ball, allowing eight hits, one walk, and striking out six. The Mets initially took a 1-0 lead in the first inning, but Suarez managed to limit the damage. The Phillies' offense erupted in the fourth inning, scoring six runs on six hits, including home runs by Bryce Harper, Nick Castellanos, and Whit Merrifield. Harper, just a triple shy of the cycle, led the offensive charge. Phillies relievers Orion Kerkering, Seranthony Dominguez, and Jose Ruiz secured the win with scoreless appearances.

Phillies’ Dominance
The Phillies, with a 45-19 record, have tied their best start in franchise history through 64 games, matching the 1993 and 1976 teams. Their .703 winning percentage is the best in MLB, and they are tied for the most wins (45) and best run differential (+109) with the Yankees. Philadelphia holds a nine-game lead in the NL East over Atlanta, the largest division lead in the league. The Phillies have won 37 of their last 48 games, an impressive .771 win percentage since April 15.

Managerial Milestone
Phillies manager Rob Thomson recently celebrated his 200th win, achieving the milestone in his 337th game, making him the second-fastest in franchise history to reach this mark. Thomson boasts the best managerial winning percentage in Phillies history (.593) and ranks second among active MLB managers, behind only Dave Roberts of the Dodgers.

Key Players to Watch
Bryce Harper: Nearly hit for the cycle in Game 1 and continues to be a key offensive force.
Nick Castellanos: Hit a career-best 113.1 MPH home run in Game 1.
Orion Kerkering: Has not issued a walk in his last 12 appearances, striking out 17 and allowing just one earned run.
Mets’ Outlook
The Mets, with a 27-36 record, aim to bounce back in Game 2. Despite their struggles, Mets owner Steve Cohen remains optimistic. "There's a lot of good ballplayers on this club," Cohen said. "I still feel that the Mets have a good run in them. The season's far from over, and I remain hopeful for the team."

Cohen also addressed the trade deadline, stating, "I'm focused right now on the season and winning games. We'll worry about that when the time comes. I do think the team is starting to play better...we've got a long way to go."

Conclusion
As the Phillies aim to continue their dominant season, the Mets look to turn their fortunes around. With another early start at 10:10 a.m. ET, both teams will need to quickly adapt to the unique setting in London. The Phillies' strong performance and strategic management have set a high bar, while the Mets strive to break their current slump and leverage their talented roster for a comeback.

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