Phillies Secure First-Round Bye with Win Over Cubs

The Philadelphia Phillies secured a first-round bye in the MLB playoffs with a 9-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs, combined with the Milwaukee Brewers' loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Homers from Nick Castellanos, Trea Turner, and Kody Clemens, along with a strong performance from Bryson Stott, highlighted the game. The Phillies also clinched their first NL East title in 13 years and now aim for home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Phillies owner John Middleton's passionate call for a championship has become a rallying cry for the team and its fans. Philadelphia will finish the regular season on the road against the Washington Nationals, while the Los Angeles Dodgers remain their main rival for the NL's top seed. Both the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox have been eliminated from playoff contention, marking a disappointing season for both teams.