What happened: The Phillies host the Yankees this weekend with Philadelphia priced as a favorite and the total set at 8.0. Right-hander Zack Wheeler has said he's open to pushing back retirement to build his Hall of Fame case, while rookie Alex McFarlane worked through his first major league start this week.
Why it matters: Philadelphia sits at 50-47 and has dropped two straight, with the trade deadline approaching and the front office already reported to be scouting impact bats. Wheeler's next outing carries added weight for a rotation the Phillies are counting on to hold their spot in a tight NL race.
By the numbers: Phillies: 50-47, last five LLWLW, on a two-game skid, scoring 4.4 runs and allowing 4.6 per game. Yankees: 53-43, last five LWWWL, on a one-game skid, scoring 4.6 and allowing 3.9 per game.
What to watch: Watch McFarlane's next turn in the rotation and whether the Phillies move on a bat before the deadline.