Thu Mar 27 10:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Phillies Open Season Against Nationals, Eyeing Another World Series Run

**Washington, D.C. –** The Philadelphia Phillies begin their 2025 Major League Baseball season today against the Washington Nationals, aiming for another deep postseason run after a 2024 NLDS exit. Despite a quiet offseason with no major free-agent signings, the team is largely returning its core players.

Ace Zack Wheeler will take the mound for his second consecutive Opening Day start, facing off against the Nationals’ MacKenzie Gore. The game, scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET, can be viewed on NBC 10, NBCSP+, the NBC Sports app, or MLB.tv (out-of-market). Radio coverage is available on 94 WIP.

The Phillies’ pitching rotation, considered one of baseball’s best, is bolstered by the addition of Jesús Luzardo, who will look to solidify the fifth starter position after a series of injuries in 2023. The rotation also includes All-Stars Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sanchez, and Ranger Suárez (currently on the injured list with back tightness, to be replaced by Taijuan Walker).

Offensively, Max Kepler, acquired from the Minnesota Twins, is expected to become the team’s everyday left fielder. Kody Clemens earned a bench spot over Buddy Kennedy.

While the Phillies lost their Opening Day matchup last year, they are confident in their ability to contend for a World Series title. Their home opener is scheduled for Monday, March 31st, against the Colorado Rockies. This will be the fifth time the Phillies and Nationals have met on Opening Day since 2005, with the Phillies holding a slight 5-3 edge in their head-to-head Opening Day matchups.

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