Alec Bohm Shines in Return as Phillies Defeat Diamondbacks 8-2: Buehler Dominates in Relief – September 19, 2025

Saturday, September 20th, 2025

Philadelphia Phillies Defeat Arizona Diamondbacks 8-2 on the Road

The Philadelphia Phillies secured a commanding 8-2 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix, thanks to a stellar performance from Alec Bohm in his first game back from the injured list and a strong bullpen showing led by Walker Buehler. Bohm drove in three runs, providing an instant spark for the Phillies' offense.

Phillies Rally After Early Deficit

Arizona jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning, highlighted by a solo home run from All-Star Ketel Marte. The Phillies answered in the second with an RBI double from Bohm, narrowing the gap to 2-1. Philadelphia fully turned the game around in the sixth, as Weston Wilson’s RBI single gave them a 3-2 advantage.

Clutch Hitting Extends Lead

In the eighth inning, Nick Castellanos delivered a two-run home run to the D-backs bullpen in left field, pushing the Phillies’ lead to 5-2. Harrison Bader contributed three hits, including a solo homer, bolstering the lineup. Bohm capped off his night with a two-run single later in the eighth, finishing with three RBI after missing nearly two weeks due to a left shoulder injury.

Walker Buehler Shines in Relief

Walker Buehler, making his second appearance with the Phillies after being released by the Boston Red Sox in late August, tossed 3 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. Buehler has now allowed just one run over 8 2/3 innings with Philadelphia, showcasing the form that made him a two-time All-Star. He did run into trouble in the eighth, issuing two walks with two outs to load the bases, but lefty Tanner Banks came in to induce a popup from Jordan Lawlar, extinguishing the threat.

Pitching Matchup Recap

Philadelphia starter Taijuan Walker allowed two runs over four innings. Arizona’s Ryne Nelson gave up two runs in five innings, striking out one and walking two. The Phillies’ bullpen, led by Buehler, held Arizona scoreless for the final five innings.

Key Moment

The Diamondbacks threatened in the eighth inning with the bases loaded and two outs, but Tanner Banks retired Jordan Lawlar on a popup, preserving the Phillies’ lead and momentum.

Key Stat

This was Walker Buehler’s second relief appearance since 2018, underscoring his adaptability and value to the Phillies’ bullpen as they make their playoff push.

Playoff Implications

The loss was costly for the Diamondbacks, who now trail the New York Mets by three games for the final National League wild card spot, with only eight games left in the season. The Phillies, meanwhile, have won 16 of their last 21 games, improving their postseason prospects.

Up Next

In the next matchup, the Diamondbacks will start right-hander Zac Gallen (12-14, 4.73 ERA) against Phillies right-hander Aaron Nola (4-9, 6.44 ERA) on Saturday night.

In summary

The Philadelphia Phillies continued their surge toward the postseason with an impressive 8-2 road win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Alec Bohm’s return and immediate offensive impact, along with Walker Buehler's solid relief outing, fueled the victory. The loss puts added pressure on the Diamondbacks in the NL wild card race, while Philadelphia’s winning momentum elevates their playoff push.

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