Phillies host Cardinals in pivotal series amid playoff race

The Philadelphia Phillies welcome the St. Louis Cardinals for a series starting today, August 21, 2026. The Phillies, fresh off a strong offensive stretch averaging 6.5 runs per game, hope to maintain momentum. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are three games out of the NL Wild Card spot, battling to improve their slightly below-average offense., Cardinals slugger Jordan Walker returns to Philadelphia after winning the Home Run Derby, where he faced booing from the local crowd, a reaction seen as respectful. Both teams aim for critical victories as the season approaches its conclusion.

• 4:59 PMYahoo Sports — Origin of a villain: Phillies vs. Cardinals series preview