Portia Buckman

Written by Portia Buckman

Published: 01 Oct 2025

30-facts-about-phillies-vs-dodgers
Source: Syracuse.com

Why is the Phillies vs. Dodgers rivalry so intense? This question has intrigued baseball fans for decades. The Phillies and Dodgers have a storied history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and nail-biting games. Both teams have passionate fan bases that bring energy and excitement to every matchup. From dramatic playoff battles to regular-season showdowns, this rivalry never disappoints. The competition between these two teams often feels like a heavyweight boxing match, with each side delivering powerful blows. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, understanding the key facts about this rivalry will deepen your appreciation for one of baseball's most thrilling matchups.

Table of Contents

Phillies vs. Dodgers: A Historic Rivalry

The Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers have a storied history in Major League Baseball. Their matchups have produced some unforgettable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic rivalry.

  1. The Phillies and Dodgers first faced off on April 30, 1890. The Dodgers, then known as the Brooklyn Bridegrooms, won the game 7-3.

  2. The Dodgers moved from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in 1958, but the rivalry with the Phillies continued to thrive on the West Coast.

  3. The Phillies and Dodgers have met in the postseason five times, with the Dodgers winning three of those series.

  4. In 1983, the Phillies defeated the Dodgers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) to advance to the World Series.

  5. The Dodgers got their revenge in 2008, defeating the Phillies in the NLCS to advance to the World Series.

Legendary Players and Memorable Moments

Both teams have had their share of legendary players and unforgettable moments. Here are some highlights from their storied rivalry.

  1. Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt hit his 500th career home run against the Dodgers on April 18, 1987.

  2. Dodgers' pitcher Sandy Koufax threw a perfect game against the Phillies on September 9, 1965.

  3. Phillies' pitcher Roy Halladay threw a no-hitter against the Dodgers in the 2010 NLCS, only the second no-hitter in postseason history.

  4. Dodgers' outfielder Kirk Gibson hit a dramatic walk-off home run against the Phillies on September 16, 1988.

  5. Phillies' first baseman Ryan Howard hit his 200th career home run against the Dodgers on July 16, 2009.

Records and Achievements

The Phillies and Dodgers have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their rivalry.

  1. The Dodgers hold the record for the most wins in a single season against the Phillies, with 16 victories in 1953.

  2. The Phillies' longest winning streak against the Dodgers is 10 games, achieved in 1977.

  3. Dodgers' pitcher Don Drysdale holds the record for the most strikeouts in a single game against the Phillies, with 16 strikeouts on June 8, 1960.

  4. Phillies' pitcher Steve Carlton holds the record for the most career wins against the Dodgers, with 38 victories.

  5. The highest-scoring game between the two teams occurred on May 17, 1979, when the Phillies defeated the Dodgers 23-22.

Fan Experiences and Cultural Impact

The rivalry between the Phillies and Dodgers extends beyond the field, influencing fan experiences and popular culture.

  1. The Phillies and Dodgers have one of the longest-running rivalries in MLB, spanning over 130 years.

  2. Both teams have passionate fan bases known for their loyalty and enthusiasm.

  3. The rivalry has been featured in various forms of media, including books, documentaries, and films.

  4. Phillies and Dodgers games often draw large crowds, with fans traveling from across the country to witness the matchups.

  5. The rivalry has inspired numerous fan traditions, including tailgating and themed game nights.

Modern-Day Matchups

In recent years, the rivalry between the Phillies and Dodgers has continued to produce exciting games and memorable moments.

  1. The Dodgers have dominated the Phillies in recent years, winning 12 of their last 15 matchups.

  2. Phillies' outfielder Bryce Harper has been a standout performer against the Dodgers, with a .315 batting average and 10 home runs in 35 games.

  3. Dodgers' pitcher Clayton Kershaw has a career 2.27 ERA against the Phillies, one of his best against any team.

  4. Phillies' pitcher Aaron Nola has a 3.45 ERA against the Dodgers, with 45 strikeouts in 41.2 innings.

  5. The Dodgers and Phillies have played several extra-inning games in recent years, adding to the excitement of their matchups.

Future of the Rivalry

As both teams continue to evolve, the rivalry between the Phillies and Dodgers shows no signs of slowing down.

  1. The Phillies and Dodgers are both committed to building competitive teams, ensuring that their matchups remain exciting for years to come.

  2. Young stars like Phillies' Alec Bohm and Dodgers' Gavin Lux are poised to become key players in the rivalry.

  3. The rivalry is expected to continue to draw large crowds and generate significant media attention.

  4. Both teams have invested in state-of-the-art facilities and fan experiences, enhancing the overall atmosphere of their games.

  5. The Phillies and Dodgers are both focused on winning championships, adding another layer of intensity to their rivalry.

Final Whistle

Phillies vs. Dodgers games are always a thrill. From historic rivalries to jaw-dropping plays, these matchups never disappoint. Both teams have rich histories, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're a die-hard Phillies supporter or a loyal Dodgers fan, there's always something to look forward to when these two teams clash.

Remember, the next time you catch a game, you're witnessing a piece of baseball history in the making. The stats, the players, the atmosphere—everything combines to create a unique experience. So grab your popcorn, wear your team colors, and enjoy the show. Baseball is more than just a game; it's a tradition, a passion, and a way of life. Keep these facts in mind, and you'll appreciate the Phillies vs. Dodgers rivalry even more.

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