After a day off on Tuesday, the Colorado Rockies (1-3) are set to face the Philadelphia Phillies (3-1) at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday night.
The Phillies showcased their strength in the series opener, securing a convincing 6-1 victory.
Freeland Aims for Redemption
The Rockies entered the 2025 season with limited expectations following a disappointing 61-101 record in 2024, which included the highest ERA in the league at 5.47. With no significant roster changes in the offseason, DraftKings forecasts a mere 58.5 wins for Colorado, the lowest in the National League. The Rockies continue to count on their home field advantage, struggling significantly on the road with a .234 team batting average in 2024. Players like shortstop Ezequiel Tovar (26 HR, 78 RBI) and center fielder Brenton Doyle (23 HR, 72 RBI) offer some hope, but the pitching rotation remains a concern.
Kyle Freeland will take the mound for the Rockies, seeking another solid performance. He started the season strong by pitching six scoreless innings in a 3-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Opening Day. In the previous year, Freeland recorded a 5-8 record with a 5.24 ERA. Historically, he holds a 2-3 record with a 3.50 ERA against the Phillies, but has struggled at Citizens Bank Park, going 0-3 with a 5.79 ERA.
Schwarber’s Hot Start
The Phillies are coming off a successful 2024 season, achieving a remarkable 95 wins and clinching their first NL East title since 2011, although their playoff journey ended prematurely in the NLDS. DraftKings has set a projected win total of 91.5 for 2025. Philadelphia’s success is largely attributed to its experienced roster, featuring stars like Bryce Harper (30 HR, 87 RBI) and Kyle Schwarber (38 HR, 104 RBI). Schwarber has already made an impact this season with three home runs and six RBI.
Today, the Phillies will rely on ace Zack Wheeler. He finished 2024 with a 16-7 record and a 3.13 ERA. Wheeler performed well during spring training and began the season strong, allowing just one run and two hits over six innings in the Opening Day victory against Washington. Although he has a 3-2 record with a 5.02 ERA against the Rockies in his career, he has fared better at home, boasting a 3-1 record with a 4.38 ERA.
Predictions for Rockies vs. Phillies
The Phillies’ lineup is particularly suited to exploit Freeland’s struggles on the road. With a .265 team batting average against left-handed pitchers in 2024—ranking fifth in MLB—their offense is primed for success against Freeland’s 5.79 career ERA at Citizens Bank Park. Wheeler’s strong home performance, featuring a 2.89 ERA in 2024, combined with Colorado’s difficulties on the road, enhances Philadelphia’s advantage. Moreover, the Phillies’ bullpen, which kept the Rockies scoreless in Monday’s opener, provides additional assurance. With a lineup bolstered by Harper, Trea Turner, and Schwarber, Philadelphia is favored to cover the run-line.
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