Phillies’ miserable offensive stretch continues in series loss to Cardinals

The Phillies (9-6) just can’t get it going at the plate. They have been shut out twice in the last three games, dropping the finale against the Cardinals (7-8) in St. Louis 7-0. It’s the first time since August 2022 that the Phillies were held scoreless twice in a single series.

They had opportunities early against St. Louis starter Matthew Liberatore, but couldn’t cash in. On a less windy day, Bryce Harper’s fly ball to deep left-center field with a 105.3 mph exit velocity in the first inning is probably out. They had runners on second and third with one out in the top of the second, but Brandon Marsh struck out and Johan Rojas was out on a bunt attempt. The last Phillies hit in the game came in the third inning. Cardinals pitching retired 20 consecutive hitters to end the game.

Marsh’s stretch in particular has been brutal. He has not had a hit since the Nationals series and is 0 for his last 26.

Zack Wheeler gave up a two-run home run in the fourth and a pair of ground-rule doubles in the sixth that led to another pair of runs. He went six innings, allowing four earned runs on seven hits. Matt Strahm and Carlos Hernandez combined to give up three more runs.

They’ll fly home to Philly after the 2-4 roadtrip to face the San Francisco Giants for four beginning Monday. Taijuan Walker will take the mound against right-handed pitcher Landen Roupp.