Hittin' Season: A Philadelphia Phillies podcast
It’s Round Two for the Phillies and Braves in September
Four games out of the division lead, the Phillies will take on the Atlanta Braves this weekend—again—in a big series for the NL East—again—while facing Chris Sale, Tyler Mahle, and Grant Holmes. Again. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the strengths and weaknesses of both teams and how, if winning the east is their goal, sweeping the Braves is the Phillies’ only option.
Phillies Show Some Heart
The Phillies enter the final game of their series against the Astros splitting the first two games, falling behind early before rallying late in each. Kyle Schwarber once again is playing the hero, but the rest of the lineup is joining in, too. John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps the first two games of the series, and discusses one big thing happening in MLB that is driving him crazy and needs to end, forever.
What Did We Learn From Phillies-Braves Part 1?
The Phillies split their four-game series with the Atlanta Braves in Philadelphia over the Labor Day weekend, showcasing all the reasons why they can, and can't, succeed in October. On this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh, and Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the outstanding starting pitching, Jesus Luzardo's shutout, and frustrating performances by the bullpen and the offense that reminded fans all too well of the last four Octobers.
It's a Four-Game Weekend with the Phillies and Braves
Get ready to spend the last holiday weekend of the summer with the Phillies and Braves both reaching for that NL East division title. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about how both teams have done since they last met in April, as well as the Phillies' hottest players at the moment in Jesus Luzardo, Andrew Painter, and Bryce Harper.
The Phillies Playoff Push Begins In Earnest Right Now!
Finally, after five months, the Phillies and Atlanta Braves will meet again. Fresh off a 6-3 west coast road trip, the Phils return to Citizens Bank Park for a huge four-game series against the leaders of the NL East. Host John Stolnis of The Good Phight previews the upcoming series and recaps a solid week in Arizona against the Diamondbacks as well.
The Phillies Own August
The Phillies do not want to see August end. Winners of 13 of 15 after sweeping the Angels in Los Angeles, the Phils begin a key week of baseball with MLB playoff implications. John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss Andrew Painter's solid follow-up start, Zack Wheeler getting back on track, Cristopher Sanchez' outstanding outing and a weekend full of heroic moments for Edmundo Sosa. Also, John and Justin discuss some major moves by the Phillies' front office to revamp their player development system.
The Phillies Should Get Back to Winning Against the Angels
The Phillies dropped two of three in Seattle, but won the finale in a showcase of their strengths. Now they're off to Anaheim to face yet another struggling Angels team against whom they should be able to keep winning. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the two teams' history, what's going on with Zack Wheeler, and some recent front office changes.
Can the Phillies Move Trea Turner Down in the Lineup?
On this episode of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, host John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps the Phillies series against the Mariners in Seattle. The Phils lost two out of three but managed to win the get-away game on Wednesday thanks to power blasts from Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, and 7 studly shutout innings from Jesus Luzardo. John also talks about the conundrum facing Don Mattingly with regard to the slumping Trea Turner's spot in the batting order, and whether we should be overly concerned about Zack Wheeler's recent performance.
Kyle Schwarber's "Schwarbomb" Caps A Thrilling Phillies Weekend Against the Cardinals!
Where were you when Kyle Schwarber and the Phillies shocked the world with the team's first walk-off home run in more than three years? On the latest Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap an insane Sunday comeback by the Phils against the Cardinals. They also delve into "The Phillies Phive," five big takeaways and topics from the weekend, including impressive starts from Andrew Painter and Jesus Luzardo, the offense's incredible continued transformation and the suddenly razor thin NL East standings.
Phillies Get Another Chance to Crush the Cardinals
The last time the Phillies played the Cardinals, not much was going right. Now, with a season-high six-game win streak, they face St. Louis again at home with a chance to expand on their success—and a reborn Bryson Stott at the plate. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the Phillies' big series on MLB Players Weekend.
A Joyous Phillies Sweep of the Marlins
Phillies fans are rejoicing after the Phils finished off a three-game sweep of the Miami Marlins. Winners of six in a row, the suddenly red-hot club is inching closer to the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. Host John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps an entertaining series, including Aaron Nola's outstanding start, Alec Bohm and Bryson Stott's star turns, a complete makeover by the Phillies offense, and why John's not concerned about Zack Wheeler's struggles. Also, we take a look around the Majors and investigate the crippling season by Cal Raleigh, Vlad Guerrero Jr.'s weird home run...
The Phillies Bats Come Alive in a Weekend Sweep of the Twins
For once, the Hittin' Season podcast will live up to its name. The Phils' bats broke out in sweeping the Twins in Minnesota thanks to huge weekends by first baseman Alec Bohm and third baseman Bryson Stott. On this week's edition of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher recap the series, including Andrew Painter's uneven start Sunday, Jesus Luzardo as the team's latest "ace," and answer some mailbag questions, too.
Phillies Pop Some Corn at the MLB Field of Dreams Game
The Phillies enjoyed the kind of win they've been missing lately by taking down the Twins 7-1 at the MLB Field of Dreams game in Iowa on Thursday. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher recap the satisfying W, including a good Aaron Nola performance, a couple of Schwarbombs, and a great night for Brandon Marsh.
Could the Phillies Really Not Make the Playoffs?
After dropping another series, this one to the Cardinals in St. Louis, the Philadelphia Phillies find themselves on the outside of the National League Wild Card race. On this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the final two games of the series, Zack Wheeler's worrisome last four starts, Bryce Harper's knee, the need to put Alec Bohm on the bench and previews Thursday night's Field of Dreams Game against the Minnesota Twins in Iowa.
Phillies "True or False" and Other Musings
Alec Bohm should be benched. Jesus Luzardo is the Phillies' best pitcher. The Phils are mediocre and, yet, still the biggest threat to knock off the Dodgers. Which of these statements are true? Which are false? After this weekend's series with the Blue Jays and their opener against the Cardinals Monday, hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher tackle the biggest questions surrounding the Phillies as they play a little "True or False" filled with questions about the hometown 9.
Luis Arraez Makes A Great First Impression for the Phillies
Luis Arraez' arrival in Philadelphia couldn't have come at a better time, playing a key role in the Phillies' series against the Washington Nationals this week. On Episode 1111 of Hittin' Season, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal recaps the Phils' series victory over the Nats, putting the "fun" in fundamentals, Kyle Schwarber's recent slump, and the importance of Bryce Harper's move to right field.
An Extra Inning Loss That Was Historic for the Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals played one of the weirdest games of the 2026 MLB season, one Phils fans would like to forget. John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps a weird night at the ball yard and discusses the impact Luis Arraez has had, his spot in the lineup, the struggles of Kyle Schwarber and a quick thought on a new media star introduced to the world Wednesday night.
Did the Phillies Do Enough at the Trade Deadline?
The MLB Trade Deadline has come and gone and the Phillies made some big moves, acquiring Giants infielder Luis Arraez and relief pitcher Brooks Raley and Caleb Kilian. But was it enough to keep up with the Dodgers, Brewers, Cubs and the other top teams in the National League? On this episode of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap a wild trade deadline day, Dave Dombrowski's decision not to trade for a starting pitcher, and analyze fan reaction to the day's events...
Bryce Harper, Don Mattingly, Everyone Is Mad About the Phillies
The struggling Phillies were swept in Miami against a Marlins team that entered their series on a 12-game losing streak. Have the Phils hit rock bottom with just days to go before the MLB Trade Deadline? On a NEW Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, hosts Justin Klugh and John Stolnis break down the off-field noise being made by Bryce Harper and Don Mattingly, how Dave Dombrowski plays into the unrest, and just what is going wrong for a Phils squad heading in the wrong direction.
Phillies Inconsistencies On Display After Dodgers and Yankees Homestand
All the Phillies' warts were on full display during their 3-6 homestand coming out of the All Star Break against the Mets, Dodgers and Yankees. On this episode of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss what's most needed with one week left until the MLB Trade Deadline.
The Phillies are Starting the Second Half Slowly
On the day the Sixers signed LeBron James, it's time of course to talk about the topic on everyone's mind: The Phillies' struggles in thus far the second half. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher break down the team's vibes following six games since the all-star break and discuss recent comments from Dave Dombrowski.
Phillies Put the "Fun" in Fundamentals Against the Dodgers & Trade Deadline Rumors
The Phillies dropped the final two games of their series against the Dodgers in Philadelphia thanks to some brain dead baserunning gaffes and errors that show the gap between Los Angeles and the Phils. John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the final two games of the series and runs through the latest MLB Trade Deadline rumors involving the Phillies.
Phillies Put the "Fun" In "Fundamentals" Against the Dodgers
The Phillies lost their second straight series following the All Star Break thanks to shoddy baserunning, poor hitting with runners on base and a pitching staff that, at times, left much to be desired. John Stolnis of The Good Phight recaps the final two games of their series against the Dodgers in Philadelphia, and also has the latest Trade Deadline rumors, including the Phils still rumored to be going after superstar starter Tarik Skubal. John previews this weekend's series against the New York Yankees as well.
Phillies Trade Deadline "Would You Rather" & Trea Turner's Wacky Night
Trea Turner had one of the weirdest games of his career Monday night in the Phillies' 10-7 win over the Dodgers in Philadelphia. John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, break down the wacky first game of the Phils' three-game tilt with L.A. Then, they break down various Trade Deadline scenarios by playing a game of "Would You Rather?" featuring seven different options.
key topics:
Phillies' recent game highlights and player performances
Trade deadline strategies and...
Phillies Make a Hazy Return from the All-Star Break
In a cloud of wildfire smoke, the Phillies and Mets started the second half of their seasons at Citizens Bank Park. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher recap the All-Star festivities in Philadelphia, and talk about Aaron Nola, Trea Turner, and a 4-1 loss, as well as MLB's recent ban of AI use in the dugout.
Phillies Fans Steal the Show at All Star Week in Philadelphia
Phillies fans are the talk of the sports world once again after dominating the headlines at MLB's All Star Game and Home Run Derby this week! Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Brandon Marsh and Jhoan Duran may have been the stars participating in the game, but Phillies fans made the week electric. Host John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down everything we saw at the Derby and the Midsummer Classic, including Jordan Walker's walk-off HR derby victory over Schwarber, and the AL's 4-0 blanking of the NL squad. Also, John sets up the Phils' second...
Phillies 1st Half Grades & All Star Game Preview
Where are the Phillies as they enter the All Star break? Hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal hand out grades for the Phils' first half, and preview the All Star Game in Philadelphia this week, with Cristopher Sanchez starting, Zack Wheeler staying home, and Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber gearing up for Monday's Home Run Derby. Will a Phillie win in front of their home crowd?
Phillies Do Just Enough to Win in Cincinnati
After a series split and a series loss, the Phillies won one again in Cincinnati, despite the offense sputtering and the lefties in the bullpen struggling to get outs. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the series and Bryce Harper's appearance in a video for FanDuel, then Leo Morgenstern of MLB Trade Rumors discusses the Phillies' outlook at the trade deadline.
Zack Wheeler Is Pitching Angry After All Star Snub!
Zack Wheeler was robbed of a spot on the NL All Star roster thanks to a stupid rule that everyone now understands must be eliminated. But will that happen in time for his inclusion next week in Philadelphia? On Episode 1100 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the first two games of the Phils-Reds series with a starting lineup of 9 topics for discussion including:
The hard-charging Marlins now tied with the Phillies in the NL EastDon Mattingly tells ESPN he wants to return as manager in 2027!Jesus Luzardo DOES make the All Star teamTanner...Cristopher Sanchez and the Phillies Roughed Up In Kansas City
Cristopher Sanchez, the Phillies' ace, suffered the worst start of his career in a 15-1 loss to the Royals on Monday. Are the Phils running out of gas with the All Star Game just a week away? John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journals and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap a disappointing weekend in KC, discuss Trea Turner's future at shortstop, and analyze the All Star rosters, with five Phillies making the squad. Will Zack Wheeler find a way onto the team?
keywords
Phillies, MLB All-Star, Christopher Sanchez, Trey...
Phillies July 4th Preview!
On Episode 1098 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of the Good Phight runs down a starting lineup of Phillies topics, 9 topics in all, for you as you celebrate the 4th of July. Happy 250th anniversary, gang!
Phillies Spank the Mets, Trail the Braves By 3 Games!
Don't look now, but after winning their series against the Mets this weekend, the Phillies have cut the Braves' lead in the NL East to 3 games. John Stolnis of The Good Phight runs down the top storylines from the weekend, including the Race to 400 for Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, the divergent paths taken by the Mets and Phils since early struggles, and the legend of Derek Hill. Also, some thoughts about Tommy Pham, Andrew Painter and the putrid American League.
Phillies Crush the Nationals and Look Ahead to the Mets
The Phillies took care of business in dramatic fashion against the Nationals and now head to New York, where those terrible, terrible Mets just fired their manager. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher break it down, as well as the Phillies' somewhat surprising All-Star vote finalists.
Phillies Cardiac Kids in DC!
After losing Monday's opener, the Phillies made MLB history with two incredible 9th inning comebacks against the Washington Nationals in DC. The Good Phight's John Stolnis recaps an incredible week in the nation's capital. So many heroes! Is this team channeling the 2022 NL champs? Also, Justin Klugh joins the show to talk about his book, "Summer of the Cheap Weiners," and Hittin' Season Nationals Insider Ethan Stolnis (yep, they're related).
Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and the Phillies Smash the Mets!
What a weekend it was as the Phillies destroyed the Mets at CBP over the weekend. John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss Harper's cycle and monster weekend, Schwarber's FOUR home runs, outstanding pitching performances and the Phils' upcoming schedule which features a lot of road games but a number of cupcakes along the way, too.
Trea Turner, Aaron Nola, Jose Alvarado and the CBA
On Episode 1093 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, discuss this week's most pressing Phillies topics. Trea Turner's struggles, grading Aaron Nola on the Nola Curve, Jose Alvardo's issues, and how you should feel about MLB's stances on the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Andrew Painter Gets Demoted
After another abysmal outing against the Marlins on Wednesday, Andrew Painter was sent down to AAA. Host John Stolnis of The Good Phight analyzes the decision, what Painter needs to work on and what the Phils will do to fill his slot in the rotation. Also, the Phillies took two out of three from Miami, an update on how Phillies players are faring in the All Star Game fan vote, and changes coming to the Home Run Derby.
Jacob Misiorowski Outduels Cristopher Sanchez in Milwaukee
If Jacob Misiorowski wanted to make a statement against the Phillies over the weekend, he made it, cementing himself as the front-runner for NL Cy Young Award and All Star Game starter. Cristopher Sanchez, well, not so much this time. On the latest Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss the contrasting performances from the two stars, addressed the Phillies' outfield situation, and the continuing slump of shortstop Trea Turner.
Phillies Face Another First-Place Foe
The hot-hitting Phillies take on the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend, who currently lead the NL Central. Steve Drumwright of Pitcher List and Brewer Fanatic stops by to deliver a Brewers scouting report, and Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher talk about the Phillies' recent trade for a center fielder.
Phillies Take Another Series in Toronto
Ho hum, just another series win for the Phillies, who are now 28-12 under Don Mattingly following their victory on Wednesday over the Blue Jays. On Episode 1089 of Hittin' Season, the Good Phight's John Stolnis recaps the series. Also, is Mattingly overusing closer Jhoan Duran? And John opens the X and Blue Sky mailbag for a lot of trade deadline questions as the deadline draws ever closer.