Sat Sep 20 02:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text:
**Phillies Eye NLDS Matchup with Dodgers, Strategically Align Rotation for Postseason Run**
LOS ANGELES – Despite a 5-0 loss to the Dodgers on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Phillies are strategically positioning themselves for a potential National League Division Series (NLDS) showdown with Los Angeles. Holding a comfortable 6 1/2 game lead over the Dodgers for the coveted No. 2 seed in the NL playoffs, the Phillies are poised to secure a first-round bye.
Manager Rob Thomson has already begun maneuvering the pitching rotation with the NLDS in mind. Cristopher Sánchez has been slated to start Game 1 of the NLDS on October 4th, with the schedule strategically arranged to give him five days rest. Taijuan Walker and Walker Buehler will be piggybacking to start Friday night’s series opener against Arizona at Chase Field. Aaron Nola will pitch Saturday. Ranger Suárez will pitch Sunday.
While Thomson remained tight-lipped about the full NLDS rotation, speculation suggests Ranger Suárez will likely start Game 2, with Jesús Luzardo potentially taking the mound for Game 3. Thomson emphasized the importance of Sánchez as the key component of the rotation.
The Phillies are also optimistic about the return of key players from the injured list. Alec Bohm is expected back on Friday, with Edmundo Sosa potentially returning next week. Star shortstop Trea Turner is also progressing well and could face live pitching next week, aiming for a return before the end of the regular season.
Thomson plans to emulate last year’s postseason preparation, which involved an intrasquad game to maintain the intensity and timing of the players.
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