Series Preview: Rays at Phillies, August 24 – 25

After a tough series in the desert, the Phillies came back to take two-of-three from the San Diego Padres over the weekend. They struggled offensively in he first two games in San Diego. Although, with the return of star first baseman Rhys Hoskins, the offense found somewhat of rhythm and put seven runs on the board to lock the series win. Hoskins was 2-3 with a walk and two solo shots in his return.

Many Phils fans are hoping that Hoskins continues this hot streak to get the Phillies back atop the NL East.

The Phils are back home to South Philly for a quick two game set against the Tampa Bay Rays.

The #Phillies return home to face the #Rays who have the best record in the AL.

The Phils are 4.5 games back of the NL East leading Braves. The Phils need to take at least one game from the Rays to minimize the gap in between them and the Braves. #RingTheBell pic.twitter.com/bhu64WRgxE
— Philly Sports Reports (@PhlySprtsReprts) August 24, 2021

Here are a few things to note coming into the series.

Last time they met

In a two game series at Tropicana Field in late May, the Phillies did not look great. They lost game one 5-3 after a go-ahead single by Austin Meadows off Jose Alvarado in the bottom of the eighth. This game was just another example of a wasted Zack Wheeler performance as he only allowed three runs over seven frames striking out 14 batters.

Game two was relatively uneventful as Zach Eflin struggled to keep the ball in the yard and the offense struggled to capitalize with runners in scoring position. They lost that game 6-2 despite recording double digits in the hit column.

How are the Rays doing at the moment

The Rays have been consistently successful throughout the 2021 season. In their last ten games, they have a 7–3 record and have outscored their opponents 70-40. This will be a tougher series for the Phils as they will have to sweep in order to win.

Hoskins will have an impact

Following his return from the injured list, Hoskins blasted two home runs and led the Phillies to a series win. Having his bat in the lineup will provide much more offensive depth and will force opposing pitchers to give the top of the order (Jean Segura, Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, and. Hoskins) more competitive pitches.