In a tense Game 4 of the NLDS, the Philadelphia Phillies fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers, culminating their season with a 2-1 defeat in 11 innings. This loss was marred by a controversial call that contributed significantly to the outcome.

Controversial Call Haunts Phillies

Pitcher Cristopher Sanchez expressed his frustration following the game. He revealed that home plate umpire Mark Wegner had apologized for missing a crucial strike three call during the ninth inning. This error occurred just before a walk that allowed the Dodgers to tie the game. Sanchez noted, “He knows he missed it because he told me and he apologized to me.”

Game Dynamics

Sanchez delivered an impressive performance, striking out multiple batters and allowing only one run over 6 ⅓ innings. The lone run against him came with a controversial pitch. After Nick Castellanos hit an RBI double in the seventh inning to put the Phillies ahead 1-0, Sanchez faced Alex Call. A 97-mph sinker, which appeared to clip the strike zone, was ruled a ball, leading to a walk.

• Game Performance: Sanchez pitched 6 ⅓ innings, allowing one run.
• Inning Highlight: Nick Castellanos’ RBI double gave the Phillies a temporary lead.
• Key Moment: Controversial ball call to Alex Call that led to a walk.

Wegner’s decision left Sanchez visibly frustrated, as he responded with a glance that questioned the ruling. Following that call, Sanchez walked Call, leading to a single that ultimately resulted in a game-tying run scored by Mookie Betts.

Aftermath and Reflection

In the closing frames, the Phillies’ offense faltered, managing only one base runner in the final four innings. The Dodgers capitalized on this, loading the bases in the 11th inning. The series of events highlighted a struggle with maintaining momentum, a sharp contrast to the Phillies’ strong regular season performance.

Manager Rob Thomson reflected on the defeat, noting, “I can’t really compare these losses because they all feel just awful.” He emphasized the disappointment after a season filled with expectations and success.

The Phillies have now experienced three consecutive playoff series losses, including two in the NLDS. The lingering memories of this season’s pivotal moments will offer motivation as the team prepares for next year.