Three Critical Observations From Phillies' Impressive Sweep of Mariners

While Philadelphia was at home against the Mariners, a sweep of a playoff contender is always impressive this late in the campaign. Seattle was one of the more aggressive teams at the trade deadline, trying to make improvements, and it has helped change their outlook for the rest of the season. 

With the Houston Astros being banged up and sliding of late, the Mariners could end up winning the AL West. The Phillies beating a team of that caliber, coming off the tough news about their ace Zack Wheeler, was a very encouraging sign for the franchise moving forward. 

Suarez Bounces Back

After two consecutive poor outings for the talented left-hander, it was good to see Ranger Suarez back on his game to start the series against the Mariners. This is a talented team with an improved lineup and one of the best power hitters in baseball. For a pitcher who had just come off two poor outings, it was good to see him bounce back. 

In his ninth win of the year, he totaled 10 strikeouts and allowed just two earned runs. The left-hander has now totaled a 9-6 record and 3.25 ERA for the campaign. Even though there were some struggles of late, Suarez’s strong performance helped ease any potential concerns. 

Sanchez Improves NL Cy Young Case

Due to the injury to Wheeler and the struggles of Aaron Nola this season, the new ace of the staff for Philadelphia is Cristopher Sanchez. The southpaw was able to have a breakout season in 2024, and he has followed that up with a fantastic year in 2025. 

So far, he has totaled an 11-4 record and 2.46 ERA. With the Phillies being one of the best teams in the NL, the left-hander should be getting some recognition as the best pitcher in the league. While Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates is still the favorite to win it, the absence of Wheeler for some time should direct some of that attention to Sanchez. 

In the middle game of the series, the southpaw pitched 6.1 innings and struck out 12 batters while allowing just two runs. Even though he didn't factor in the decision, it was an impressive outing. There is still some time for the southpaw to make a run at the NL Cy Young, and his performance on Wednesday certainly helped his case. 

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