Phillies vs Mets Preview: Wheeler Leads Deep PHI Rotation

The Phillies are rolling into Citi Field with momentum on their side. They've won their last two games and sit at 44-36 after dominating the Mets earlier this week. Now ace Zack Wheeler gets the ball on Friday night. Wheeler has been fantastic in 2025, posting a 1.57 ERA with 21 strikeouts. His powerful fastball and command make him one of the best pitchers in baseball. The Mets need to be ready for a pitcher firing on all cylinders. Wheeler's dominance could set the tone for the entire series ahead.

The Mets have some serious weapons in their lineup, and Juan Soto is the sharpest one. He's batting .342 with power and patience at the plate. Fernando Tatis Jr. brings speed and strength, slashing .309 with seven stolen bases. Bo Bichette sits in the middle with .284 average and five home runs. But here's the thing: the Mets are losing. They're 34-46 and have dropped five straight games. Their hitters look talented on paper, but they haven't been getting it done when it counts. The Phillies' pitching staff will test every one of them on Friday night.

The Phillies came into New York earlier this week and put on a clinic. In game one, they crushed the Mets 15-3 with an absolutely explosive offensive display. The bats came alive in the bottom of the third inning with a cascade of hits and home runs. Kyle Schwarber launched two long balls that day. Game two was closer but still went Philly's way, 6-2. The Phillies kept their foot on the gas. Now they return to Citi Field with all the confidence in the world. Can they make it three wins in a row against New York?