
The Philadelphia Phillies have now dropped nine consecutive games after losing 8-7 to the Chicago Cubs on Thursday. There are a number of explanations as for why the Phillies are struggling at the moment, but one specific statistic may be the primary reason.
MLB Network was recently discussing the Phillies’ losing streak. They shared a statistic that perfectly explains the team’s struggles. Philadelphia currently has the worst run differential in all of MLB, and it’s not even close. The team’s run differential is -51 at the moment. The Kansas City Royals have the second worst mark at -35.
Philadelphia is searching for answers. The Phillies are frustrated. There is too much talent on the roster for the team to continue playing like they are at the moment.
A number of players are simply not performing up to their expectations. Offensively, players such as Trea Turner and Alec Bohm are struggling. The pitching has been especially concerning. Cristopher Sanchez has a 2.94 ERA, but every other pitcher in the rotation who has made at least three starts currently has an ERA of 4.42 or higher.
Zack Wheeler’s upcoming return from injury should help matters, but Philadelphia is going to need the rotation to be more consistent in order to get back on track. It will not matter how well the offense performs if the pitching cannot get things going.
The Phillies will attempt to snap their losing streak on Friday night. However, they will have a challenge as they begin a three-game series with the Braves in Atlanta. The Braves currently lead the National League East.
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