The IronPigs are making their mark in the majors.
Whether it was Buddy Kennedy drawing a walk and Kody Clemens delivering a walk-off hit on Monday, Cal Stevenson hitting a go-ahead double on Tuesday, or Weston Wilson getting a game-winning infield single and Aramis Garcia throwing out a runner in the ninth inning on Wednesday, the Phillies’ depth players and Triple-A call-ups were instrumental in their sweep of the Tampa Bay Rays this week.
These players, who have spent much of the season with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, have made a noticeable impact on a Phillies team vying for the National League East title. It’s a promising sign for both the organization and the players.
“Everybody’s contributing,” said Nick Castellanos. “And I think that’s a sign of just a great team. It’s not just one person doing it. Everybody’s doing something when their number’s called.”
Got 'em! pic.twitter.com/IPnAMow2PC
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) September 12, 2024
The Phillies (88-58) have needed this support with key players like Alec Bohm, Austin Hays, and Edmundo Sosa on the injured list, and Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto dealing with day-to-day injuries. With the roster in constant flux, these call-ups have stepped up, providing key moments that have helped the team lower their magic number to clinch the division to nine games.
Some players, like Clemens or Wilson, may get more opportunities as the season and playoffs progress, while others may only have brief stints. Regardless, they all can say they made a meaningful impact on a winning team, an achievement that reflects their hard work.
Sure! pic.twitter.com/U7PiAr59KZ
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) September 12, 2024
“I think it’s a testament to how we take care of business down there,” said Wilson. “And just them putting trust in guys to come up in big situations has helped guys flourish. It’s cool to see guys step up and seize opportunities.”
The Phillies are hopeful for the return of their regulars soon. Schwarber and Realmuto are expected back against the Mets on Friday after Thursday’s day off. As the lineup gets healthier, the team will be back at full strength, with their replacements having kept them in a strong position.
“They just come up here and perform,” said manager Rob Thomson. “And you need that, because it takes a village to get this thing done. We’ve been fortunate to do that the last couple years.”
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