Yardbarker
x
Harper, Phillies' bats come alive against legendary ace 
Philadelphia Phillies infielder Bryce Harper (3) hits a two-run home run against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning at Citizens Bank Park. Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Bryce Harper, Phillies' bats come alive against legendary ace 

Bryce Harper added the final explanation point as the Philadelphia Phillies won for only the second time in six games on Tuesday night. The 6-4 win over the San Francisco Giants was Philadelphia's 10th of the season and evened up its three-game series with the Giants. 

The Phillies didn't just win, they beat one of the hottest teams in baseball and did it in a way that stands out. 

In impressive fashion, Philadelphia's potent lineup, that had failed to exceed four runs in any game since April 8, put six on the board in a game started by a future Hall of Fame ace.  

Harper and company produced 10 hits overall and handed Justin Verlander his first loss of the year. Verlander gave up four earned runs and eight hits, lasting only 5.2 innings. 

Harper and catcher J.T. Realmuto were responsible for driving in four of the Phillies' six runs in the game. 

First, Realmuto was credited with a home run that initially appeared to fall shy of getting out of the park. But upon a review, he was awarded the right to go home.  

Like an MVP, Harper then made sure his team didn't squander the opportunity. He crushed a seventh-inning pitch over the fence in right field, increasing the Phillies' lead and tacking on two more runs on the board. 

The home run was Harper's third of the season and first since April 9. The eight-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP now has three home runs and seven RBI. 

Coming off back-to-back, 90-plus win seasons and a division title, the Philadelphia Phillies are expected to contend in 2025. And while they likely will be a factor all summer, their fans will be watching closely. It's not just about getting back in the playoffs for this Phillies team, but returning to the World Series, and winning it this time. 

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!