The Philadelphia Phillies' baserunning miscues have drawn sharp criticism from their own broadcast team during a recent series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Analysts questioned the decision-making on the basepaths, particularly during a 9-5 loss on Wednesday.
In the fifth inning of Wednesday's game, with one out and the score tied 3-3, second baseman Bryson Stott was caught running on contact. Despite the ball being hit in front of him, Stott ran directly into the waiting arms of third baseman Max Muncy for the second out. The Phillies failed to score in the remainder of the inning.
"Down to third to [Max] Muncy and Stott runs into an out," Dodgers broadcaster Joe Davis said on the call. "What are these guys doing?" His color analyst, Orel Hershiser, responded, "No clue."
These baserunning errors have been a recurring issue for the Phillies in the series. On Tuesday, the team lost a close game on a game-ending 5-2-6-4 double play. The Phillies broadcast team also expressed dismay during that game's conclusion.
Since manager Don Mattingly took over following a 9-19 start, the Phillies have posted an impressive 47-28 record. However, the recent baserunning blunders have cost them critical opportunities, particularly with key hitters like Kyle Schwarber on deck.
Standard baserunning strategy dictates that a runner in scoring position, as Stott was, should not advance on contact when the ball is hit in front of them, as they should be able to score on a subsequent hit. Running into an out in such a situation is considered a significant fundamental mistake.
This pattern of baserunning issues has led to questions about the team's preparedness and fundamental soundness during the current stretch against the Dodgers.