The path to the MLB playoffs is less important than the performance there. Philadelphia Phillies manager Don Mattingly emphasized this on Sunday after his team clinched a playoff spot with a decisive final game win in the regular season.
After an intense match, the Phillies defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 7-3, securing the last National League Wild Card position with an 88-74 record in the NL East. Interim manager Mattingly, who took over after Rob Thomson’s dismissal earlier in the 2026 season, addressed his team passionately before the celebratory locker room antics.
“F— that, it doesn’t matter how you get in, you just got to get in. And we’re f—ing in,” he said, leading to a team-wide celebration.
The season began in turmoil with the Phillies at 9-19, a performance that led to Thomson’s release. Mattingly stepped in to redirect the team. Under his leadership, they regained their form despite a late-season slump. Entering the last week of the season, they needed a strong finish amid stiff competition from the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Despite a four-game lead over the Diamondbacks in the Wild Card race, the Phillies entered their final regular season game needing a win or a favor from the San Diego Padres. The Padres delivered with a 9-4 victory over the Diamondbacks, which, combined with the Phillies’ win, ensured their postseason spot.
However, the situation altered their Wild Card Series plans. Zack Wheeler, initially slated to start Game 1, pitched on Sunday to secure the qualification. The Phillies now prepare for their Wild Card Series against the NL East champions, the Atlanta Braves, starting Tuesday.
This development follows a season filled with challenges and leadership changes, recalling the impact of similar transitions in other teams, like the Boston Red Sox. The Phillies aim to capitalize on their playoff berth under Mattingly’s direction.