Phillies Lose Seven Straight, Struggle Without Harper, Wheeler, Nola

The Philadelphia Phillies are struggling through a significant slump, losing seven of their last eight games and facing challenges with key players missing. Bryce Harper's ongoing right wrist injury has notably impacted the team's offense, as the Phillies are hitting just .209 in his absence and have managed only one win in seven games without him. The pitching staff is also under strain, with Zack Wheeler on paternity leave, Aaron Nola sidelined due to injury, and recent struggles from pitcher Jesus Luzardo, whose ERA has ballooned following poor recent performances. Recent games against the Pittsburgh Pirates have been tight but disappointing, including two walk-off losses and a lack of late-inning hitting, despite contributions from players like Trea Turner. Manager Rob Thomson acknowledges the team's inconsistency and the need to fight through this funk, highlighting the Phillies' pattern of peaks and valleys over recent seasons. The team finds itself a game and a half behind the New York Mets as they enter the summer months, seeking to regain their earlier form.