Philadelphia can clinch a postseason berth by winning its final regular-season game; a loss would still leave the Phillies alive if Arizona also loses. Both games start shortly after 3 p.m. ET, so Philadelphia won't know Arizona's result before its game begins.
San Diego beat Arizona 10-7 on Saturday, leaving Philadelphia in control of its playoff path. The Phillies had led Arizona by 6½ games on Sept. 1 and by four games when a six-game homestand against the Brewers and Rays began; Saturday's 12-1 loss and a four-game run in which they were outscored 23-3 preceded the finale.
The article says Zack Wheeler was needed for the finale despite Philadelphia having hoped to use him in Game 1 of a Wild Card series. Aaron Nola was asked to start on two days' rest, while Jesus Luzardo, recently off the injured list, was slated to pitch from the bullpen.
