Sunday’s Game Preview: Mets at Phillies

PHILADELPHIA (Interstat) — The New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies conclude their three-game series Sunday at Citizens Bank Park, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m. under cloudy skies and 75-degree temperatures.

The Mets (34-41) send right-hander Zack Wheeler (6-1) to the mound. Wheeler, who spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Phillies before signing with New York, has been the Mets’ most consistent starter. He owns a 2.89 ERA and has allowed two earned runs or fewer in seven of his 12 starts. Wheeler is 2-0 with a 1.80 ERA in three road outings this season.

Philadelphia (40-35) has not announced a starter for the series finale, but right-hander Aaron Nola is a player to watch after pitching Thursday’s 6-4 loss to New York. Nola allowed two earned runs on seven hits over five innings, striking out six. He is 4-4 with a 4.32 ERA in 13 starts.

Outfielder Juan Soto leads the Mets’ attack. Soto went 2-for-4 with two home runs and two RBIs in Thursday’s win, continuing a hot stretch in which he has hit .333 (10-for-30) with three homers and six RBIs over his last seven games. Soto is batting .294 with 15 home runs and 45 RBIs this season.

The series is split entering Sunday. The Phillies won Saturday 7-0 behind a strong start from their bullpen and a balanced offense. The Mets took the opener Thursday 6-4.

New York is looking to build momentum after winning three of its last four games. Philadelphia has dropped four of its last six.

The Interstat game simulator projects a 5-4 Phillies victory.

Following Sunday’s game, the Phillies travel to Washington for a four-game series beginning Monday. The Mets return home to host the Chicago Cubs for a four-game set.