Dodgers Push Phillies to Brink of NLDS Elimination with 2-0 Series Lead

The Philadelphia Phillies face elimination in the MLB playoffs after a narrow 4-3 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 2 of the National League Division Series, trailing 2-0 in the best-of-five series. Despite a strong pitching performance from Jesús Luzardo and a late ninth-inning rally, key offensive players including Bryce Harper and Trea Turner struggled to produce crucial hits. The pivotal moment came in the seventh inning when a defensive misplay allowed the Dodgers to score four runs, putting the Phillies in a deep hole. Manager Rob Thomson's bullpen and tactical decisions have drawn criticism as the team failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The Phillies, once known for their overwhelming home-field advantage, have lost five of their last six postseason games at home, signaling a decline in their postseason dominance. As the series shifts to Los Angeles, the Phillies must sweep the remaining games to keep their season alive, a feat rarely accomplished in this format.