When Rob Thomson, manager of Philadelphia Phillies chose not to call his closer in Game 3 of the National League Division Series, the move set the tone for a series that would end in heartbreak.
The decision unfolded on October 8, 2025 at Citizens Bank Park during NLDS Game 3Philadelphia. The Phillies built a 4‑2 lead in the eighth inning, rendering a planned six‑out stint by Jhoan Duran, the team's closer, unnecessary.
Why Thomson Sat Duran on the Bench
In a post‑game interview posted on October 9, Thomson explained, “We were looking to get us as close to Don as we could, save some of the bullpen for tomorrow if we won.” The plan was simple: let starter Ranger Suárez work deep, use middle‑relief arms to bridge, and keep Duran fresh for a potential Game 4 showdown.
Statistics show the Phillies’ bullpen had logged an average of 1.2 innings per reliever in the series up to that point, a figure well above the league average of 0.9. By preserving Duran, Thomson hoped to avoid the fatigue that plagued the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen in the 2024 NLDS.
Game 4: Duran’s High‑Pressure Cameo
On October 9, with the series tied 2‑2, Duran finally entered the fray in the seventh inning of Game 4Citizens Bank Park. He inherited runners on first and second and one out.
After forcing an out on Andy Pages, Duran deliberately walked Shohei Ohtani to load the bases. The next batter, Mookie Betts, walked on a full count, tying the game at 2‑2. Duran then struck out Teoscar Hernández to end the inning.
The eighth inning was flawless: Duran retired Will Smith, Teoscar Hernández, and Betts in order, earning a perfect frame that many analysts called “a masterclass in poise under pressure.”
Other Key Performances
- Ranger Suárez recorded five solid innings before a early‑game wobble forced his removal.
- Jesus Luzardo shut down the Dodgers' top of the order in the tenth, fanning Ohtani, Betts, and Freddie Freeman.
- Rookie Roki Sasaki delivered two perfect innings in the eighth for Los Angeles, keeping the game within reach.
The Game‑Ending Error
Despite the pitching duel, the decisive moment arrived in the eleventh. With two outs and the Phillies leading 3‑2, center‑fielder Brandon Marsh mishandled a routine fly ball, allowing the winning run to score on a defensive miscue by catcher J.T. Realmuto. The error not only ended the game but also snapped the Phillies’ season, sending the Dodgers to the National League Championship Series.
Reactions from the Bench and Beyond
Thomson, visibly disappointed, told reporters, “We made the right call on Duran. The game just didn’t bounce our way.” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised his club’s resilience, noting, “Our kids stayed aggressive; that’s what got us across the finish line.” Sports analysts highlighted the series as a textbook case of “offensive silence” for Philadelphia—averaging only 3.8 runs per game, well below the NL average of 4.6.
What This Means for Philadelphia’s Future
The loss forces the Phillies to re‑evaluate their roster construction. With Duran still on a one‑year deal, front‑office executives are expected to consider a longer‑term solution for the closer role. Additionally, the sub‑par offensive output has reignited debates about whether to chase a power hitter in the upcoming free‑agency market.
From a broader viewpoint, the series marked the third time in five years that the Phillies fell in the NLDS, joining the 2020 and 2022 exits. The pattern suggests a need for a fresh strategic direction, possibly integrating more aggressive base‑running and situational hitting drills.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason looms, the Phillies will likely target a high‑OBP outfielder and a veteran left‑handed reliever to complement Duran. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, buoyed by their comeback win, will aim to build on their depth, especially the breakout performance of rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did saving Jhoan Duran affect the Phillies’ bullpen strategy in Game 4?
Holding Duran allowed Thomson to use middle‑relief arms like Matt Strahm and Jesus Luzardo in high‑leverage situations without overtaxing the closer. When Duran entered in the seventh, he faced an already fatigued Dodgers lineup, giving Philadelphia a chance to keep the lead intact through the eighth.
What were the pivotal moments that led to the Phillies’ loss in Game 4?
Key moments include Duran’s walk that tied the game, the Dodgers’ clutch hitting in the ninth, and the eleventh‑inning defensive error by Brandon Marsh that produced the winning run. Each of these swung momentum away from Philadelphia.
Which players were most impacted by the series‑ending error?
Center‑fielder Brandon Marsh, who misplayed the fly ball, and catcher J.T. Realmuto, who failed to block the runner, both faced intense scrutiny. Their mishap directly cost the Phillies the series and likely will affect their offseason perception.
How does this NLDS outcome compare to the Phillies’ recent postseason runs?
The 2025 defeat mirrors the 2020 and 2022 NLDS exits, where Philadelphia also fell short despite strong pitching. In each case, offensive inertia—averaging under four runs per game—proved the Achilles’ heel.
What does the loss mean for the Phillies’ offseason plans?
Management is expected to prioritize adding power to the lineup and reinforcing the bullpen depth. Extending Jhoan Duran or signing a veteran left‑hander could be top priorities, while the front office may also explore trade options for a high‑OBP hitter.