Bryce Harper reaches base 5 times, Phillies beat the Diamondbacks 7-1 for 6th straight win

PHOENIX (AP) — Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper showcased his all-around skills by reaching base five times, including a surprise bunt in the first inning, as the team secured their sixth consecutive victory by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-1 on Tuesday night. Starting pitcher Jesús Luzardo turned in an impressive performance, allowing just one run on six hits and a walk over 6 2/3 innings, striking out six Diamondbacks batters.

Harper's stellar month continues, as he began September with a .333/.496/.573 batting average after slugging .333/.496/.573 in August. The Phillies have now won 15 of their last 17 games, positioning themselves just three games behind the Atlanta Braves for the NL East lead. Luzardo, known for his hard-throwing abilities, boasts a 1.32 ERA over his last six starts, joining a group of top-tier starting pitchers including Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Cristopher Sanchez.

Despite a late rally by the Diamondbacks, featuring a solo home run by Jordan Lawlar in the fifth inning, the Phillies maintained control and put the game away with a three-run eighth inning and additional scoring in the ninth. Arizona's starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez struggled, allowing three runs on eight hits and three walks over five innings.

The Phillies will send right-handed reliever Andrew Painter (3-8, 5.95 ERA) to the mound in the final game of the series, while the Diamondbacks have yet to announce a starter for their upcoming matchup.