The Philadelphia Phillies opened the 2025 season with a hard-fought 7-3 victory over the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park, powered by a clutch game-winning hit from Alec Bohm. In the top of the 10th inning, with the game tied 3-3, Bohm stepped up to the plate and delivered a key double on a sharp line drive to center, driving in two runs to give the Phillies the lead and the eventual win.
A Back-and-Forth Battle
From the start, the game was a nail-biter. Phillies’ ace Zack Wheeler delivered a solid six innings, allowing just one run while striking out eight. The Nationals kept it close, matching the Phillies blow for blow in what shaped up to be a tight contest. Both teams capitalized on mistakes and delivered timely hits to keep the game neck-and-neck.
Among the offensive highlights were solo home runs from veterans Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber in the top of the seventh inning. Harper’s blast gave the Phillies their first run of the game, followed by Schwarber’s shot, which put them ahead 2-1. The Phillies extended their lead to 3-1 in the eighth on a wild pitch, but the Nationals answered back in the bottom half, tying the game at 3-3.
🚨 The first Schwarbomb of 2025 pic.twitter.com/9JfYj4KH10
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 27, 2025
BRYCE COLD pic.twitter.com/6NgQYWH4RQ
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 27, 2025
Bohm’s Key Hit Comes at a Crucial Time
With the game tied at 3 in the top of the 10th, Bohm came through when his team needed him most. With two outs and two on (Bryson Stott and Bryce Harper), Bohm ripped a double into center field, scoring two runs and giving Philadelphia the lead. His clutch performance proved to be the turning point in the game, securing the first win of the season for the Phillies.
The Offseason Drama for Bohm
Bohm’s pivotal moment was even more significant considering the uncertainty surrounding him during the offseason. Trade rumors had swirled around the 28-year-old third baseman, with speculation that the Phillies might look to move him as part of their efforts to improve the roster. But the front office held firm and kept Bohm in Philadelphia, a decision that was undoubtedly vindicated with his game-winning hit on Opening Day.
Get the RBI machine goin' pic.twitter.com/0HWq1vi8GE
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 27, 2025
Praise from Manager Rob Thomson
Phillies manager Rob Thomson couldn’t hide his pride in Bohm’s performance after the game. “Alec showed a lot of resilience and heart,” Thomson said. “He battled through a lot of noise during the offseason, and tonight he showed why we have confidence in him. Coming up big in that moment is what it’s all about.”
Rebounding from Last Year’s Playoff Disappointment
For the Phillies, this victory was a welcome start after their heartbreaking early exit from the postseason last year. Despite a solid regular season, the Phillies were eliminated in the NLDS by the New York Mets. The bitter sting of that defeat has driven the team throughout the offseason, and the players are determined to make this season a better one, using the pain of last year as motivation.
Looking Ahead
With the season opener behind them, the Phillies will look to build on their momentum as they continue their series against the Nationals. If Opening Day is any indication, 2025 promises to be an exciting and memorable season for the Philly faithful.
Jesus Luzardo will take the mound for Saturday’s game, with veteran Aaron Nola starting on Sunday. After this three-game series, the Phillies will head home for their season opener, a three-game set with the Rockies, followed by a three-game series at home against the Dodgers.
