Phillies Clinch Playoff Spot with 8-2 Win, Castellanos Hits 250th Homer

The Philadelphia Phillies secured an 8-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks, further solidifying their position as NL East champions and playoff contenders. Nick Castellanos, despite a reduced role in a crowded outfield, hit his 250th career home run as a pinch hitter, significantly contributing to the Phillies' win and reinforcing his value to the team heading into October. Alec Bohm made a strong return from the injured list with three RBIs, while Walker Buehler delivered 3 2/3 innings of scoreless relief, proving effective since joining the Phillies late in August after a challenging stint with the Red Sox. The Phillies overcame an early two-run deficit, with key hits from Weston Wilson and Harrison Bader supporting their comeback. This victory kept the Phillies' magic number for a potential first-round bye at three, emphasizing their continued push for postseason advantages. The loss was detrimental for the Diamondbacks, who now trail the Mets by three games for the final NL wild card spot with only eight games remaining.