The Philadelphia Phillies enter the 2025 MLB season with championship aspirations, driven by an experienced and talent-laden roster that has reached the postseason in three consecutive years. After narrowly missing a World Series berth in 2024, the team returns with much of its core intact and a renewed sense of urgency to finish the job. The Phillies will open their campaign on the road against the Washington Nationals, and they’ll send ace Zack Wheeler to the mound for his second consecutive Opening Day start. Wheeler, a workhorse and perennial Cy Young contender, was dominant in 2024 with a 13-7 record and a 2.57 ERA across 200 innings. While he’s had a career ERA of 4.45 in 35 starts versus the Nationals, he flipped the script last season by going 2-0 with a 2.29 ERA in three starts against Washington, striking out 23 over 19 2/3 innings. His consistency, elite fastball command, and postseason poise make him the ideal tone-setter for a Phillies team that expects to contend from Day 1. Offensively, the Phillies return one of the most dangerous lineups in the National League. Bryce Harper, the face of the franchise, continues to be one of baseball’s most complete hitters. Despite transitioning to first base in 2024, Harper maintained his offensive production, hitting .293 with 28 home runs and a .914 OPS. Surrounding him is a lineup packed with power and patience.

Kyle Schwarber, who launched 45 homers last season, is always a threat to change the game with one swing. J.T. Realmuto, considered one of the top all-around catchers in the game, brings elite defense, strong game-calling, and a productive bat. Alec Bohm and Bryson Stott provide balance with their ability to hit for average and drive in runs from the middle of the lineup, while Trea Turner brings speed, power, and elite base-running instincts to the top of the order. The Phillies have emphasized improved contact hitting and strike-zone discipline in spring training, a key focus after a few too many high-strikeout games in late 2024. On the pitching side beyond Wheeler, the Phillies boast a deep rotation with Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, and Cristopher Sánchez rounding out the group. Their bullpen, which was a strength during last year’s playoff push, returns José Alvarado, Jeff Hoffman, and Gregory Soto, all capable of high-leverage outs. The addition of Matt Strahm further stabilizes the relief corps, while Craig Kimbrel remains a late-inning option if he returns to form. Under manager Rob Thomson’s leadership, the team has embraced a culture of resilience and tactical discipline, and that was evident in their multiple come-from-behind wins during the 2024 postseason. Statistically, Philadelphia was a strong bet as a favorite last season, going 59-38 (60.8%) in such games. They were also 4-1 when favored by a moneyline of -266 or shorter, which reflects how well they performed against weaker teams like the Nationals. While the Phillies have dropped their last two season openers, they’ll be motivated to reverse that trend and start 2025 with a convincing win. With one of the deepest lineups in the NL and a front-line ace in Wheeler, the Phillies arrive in Washington as heavy favorites and are looking to send an early message to the rest of the division. A dominant Opening Day win on the road would set the tone for what Philadelphia hopes will be a long and rewarding season culminating in a World Series title.