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Phillies Swept in Houston, Offensive Woes Raise Roster Uncertainty

Philadelphia heads for the trade deadline grappling with an offense that managed one run in 27 innings.

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Houston Astros' Jake Meyers (6) reacts after striking out against Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez during the third inning of a baseball game, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Karen Warren)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 16: Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies walks back to the dugout after a fly ball for an out to end the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park on May 16, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Heather Barry/Getty Images)
Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) strikes out against Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez in the first inning of a baseball game, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Karen Warren)

Overview

  • The Phillies were swept in a three-game series by the Astros, scoring just one run over 27 innings and ending a 26-inning scoreless stretch.
  • Kyle Schwarber’s impending free agency has created uncertainty around the lineup as extension talks have stalled.
  • Bryce Harper advanced in wrist rehab by hitting off a pitching machine, setting up a possible return in Atlanta this weekend.
  • With late-inning bullpen reliability in question, the Phillies are exploring a trade for Twins closer Jhoan Duran.
  • Astros pitching dominance—highlighted by Hunter Brown’s seven scoreless innings and Cam Smith’s go-ahead RBI—has fueled Houston’s home surge while GM Dana Brown eyes a left-handed bat for the deadline.