The Philadelphia Phillies, after a dismal 9-19 start that led to the firing of manager Rob Thomson, have surged to a 45-24 record and are heavily represented at the 2026 MLB All-Star Game they are hosting.
The 2026 All-Star Game takes place at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, marking America's 250th birthday at the site of the Declaration of Independence signing. Interim manager Don Mattingly leads a roster that includes Kyle Schwarber leading off for the National League, Cristopher Sánchez as the starting pitcher, and Brandon Marsh batting seventh.
Bryce Harper comes off the bench for the NL, while Jhoan Duran is available in the bullpen. Jesús Luzardo also made the roster, though Zack Wheeler declined a replacement invitation. Schwarber and Harper participated in Monday's Home Run Derby.
Mattingly credited the team's talent rather than the managerial change. "I just think that we had a good club and it was something that was gonna happen," he said. Schwarber noted the players felt the weight of Thomson's dismissal but focused on returning to their game.
Sánchez called pitching at home an honor. "I feel at home. I'm at home here," he said. The Phillies aim for a deep playoff run and a World Series title.
