Citizens Bank Park drama: A shutout win, injury scare, and a doubleheader showdown

May 29, 2025 | Philadelphia, PA — It’s been a dramatic week at Citizens Bank Park as the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves clashed in a series packed with intensity, a star injury scare, and a rain-soaked schedule shift.

On May 27, the Phillies secured a tight 2-0 win over their division rivals, thanks to a dominant performance from pitcher Ranger Suárez, who struck out eight and allowed just four hits over six innings.

Harper Hit by Pitch – But It’s Not as Bad as It Looked

The big scare of the night came early when Bryce Harper was struck by a 95.3 mph fastball from Braves ace Spencer Strider, hitting his surgically repaired right elbow. Harper exited the game immediately, sending fans and teammates into panic mode.

Fortunately, X-rays came back negative, and Harper was diagnosed with only a right elbow contusion. He is expected to take a short rest before returning to the lineup. “It hurt like hell, but I’ll be fine,” Harper told reporters.

Weather Delay Leads to Doubleheader

The second game of the series, scheduled for May 28, was postponed due to rain. MLB announced the game will be made up as a split doubleheader on Thursday, May 29, with games at 1:05 PM and 6:45 PM ET.

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Game Day Preview: Pitching Matchups Set

For Thursday’s doubleheader, the Phillies will send Cristopher Sánchez (4-1, 3.17 ERA) to the mound for Game 1 and Zack Wheeler (6-1, 2.42 ERA) for Game 2. The Braves have not yet confirmed their starting rotation.

NL East Tensions Rising

The series is more than just a matchup of two powerhouses—it’s a pivotal clash in the National League East standings. The Phillies are red-hot, winning 10 of their last 11, while the Braves are looking to regain their early-season dominance.

Stay tuned for updates as Thursday’s doubleheader could shape the division race heading into June.