Rays’ Freddy Peralta shuts down punchless Phillies, who lose 3rd straight potential playoff clincher

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Freddy Peralta held strong through six innings, preventing Philadelphia from achieving its third consecutive potential playoff clinching game, as the Tampa Bay Rays emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over the Phillies on Friday night. The Phillies, who had been leading Arizona by two games for an NL wild-card spot with three games remaining, fell short in their bid to secure their fifth consecutive playoff berth.

Jonny DeLuca contributed with an RBI single in the first inning, while Nick Fortes added a home run in the second. Peralta, who had a record of 10-11, struck out four batters and allowed just four hits over 5 1/3 innings. Bryan Baker added a scoreless ninth inning, securing his 41st save of the season. Cristopher Sánchez of the Phillies pitched seven innings, striking out 10 batters while walking only one.