Philly Leader

Phillies manager Rob Thomson made a strategic change to the lineup before Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Mets. Edmundo Sosa replaced Alec Bohm at third base, as Bohm has been struggling recently. The Phillies secured a 7-6 victory with a walk-off single by Nick Castellanos.

Thomson explained his decision: “He’s scuffling a little bit,” referring to Bohm. He emphasized the need for energy in the lineup and noted that Sosa could provide that boost. Bohm, who had an impressive season with 97 RBIs, went hitless in four at-bats during Game 1, managing only one hard-hit ball.

Bohm expressed frustration after his final at-bat in Game 1 by slamming his helmet to the ground. Despite this, Thomson encouraged him to stay ready: “I just told him, be ready to pinch-hit.”

Sosa's high chase rate is notable as the Phillies aim to improve their discipline at the plate. Nevertheless, he was chosen for his potential impact on the game’s energy dynamics.

In Game 2, Bohm entered as a pinch-hitter in the seventh inning but popped up on his first pitch from reliever José Buttó. Looking ahead to Game 3 at Citi Field, it is likely that Bohm will return to third base while Sosa might play second base against left-hander Sean Manaea.

Thomson stated: “In every game in the playoffs, it’s crunch time... Make the move that you think is right.”