Context:

Max Kepler's decisive home run in the eighth inning secured a 3-2 victory for the Philadelphia Phillies over the Toronto Blue Jays. Cristopher Sánchez delivered a strong performance on the mound for the Phillies, who managed just four hits but still secured their fourth win in five games. Despite missing Bryce Harper due to a wrist injury, the Phillies capitalized on the Blue Jays' struggles, particularly those of Bowden Francis, who faltered after a strong start. Key relief pitching by Orion Kerkering and Matt Strahm ensured the Phillies maintained their lead, with Strahm achieving his third save. The teams will conclude their series with a matchup between José Berríos and Zack Wheeler on Sunday.

Dive Deeper:

• Max Kepler hit a crucial home run in the eighth inning, breaking a 2-2 tie and leading the Phillies to victory over the Blue Jays, marking a significant moment in the game.

• Cristopher Sánchez pitched effectively for seven innings, contributing significantly to the Phillies' narrow victory despite the team's limited offensive output of just four hits.

• Bryce Harper's absence due to a wrist injury did not deter the Phillies, who managed to secure their fourth win in the last five games, showing resilience and depth in their lineup.

• Orion Kerkering and Matt Strahm played pivotal roles in the bullpen, with Kerkering pitching a scoreless eighth and Strahm closing the game in the ninth, earning his third save.

• Bowden Francis started strong for the Blue Jays but struggled after 3 2/3 innings, leading to a series of walks and a hit batter that allowed the Phillies to tie and take the lead.

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contributed to the Blue Jays' effort with an RBI double, though it was not enough to overcome the Phillies' decisive plays in the later innings.

• The series will conclude with a pitching matchup between Toronto's José Berríos and Philadelphia's ace Zack Wheeler, promising an exciting finale to the three-game series.