The Phillies’ home opener, meant to reignite the energy of baseball at Citizens Bank Park, remained largely lifeless for nearly seven innings—until Edmundo Sosa changed the narrative.

Stepping up as Philadelphia’s spark plug, Sosa came to bat in the bottom of the seventh with two runners on against Rockies reliever Victor Vodnik. In his third consecutive start at shortstop in place of Trea Turner, Sosa delivered a crucial hit, setting off a late-game scoring surge.

Sosa drove a double into right-center field, bringing in two runs and giving the Phillies the lead in what became a 6-1 victory on Monday afternoon. Reaching second base, he turned toward the dugout, pumping his arms and flexing—another clutch moment from the infielder.

“It’s important for me to get these opportunities early,” Sosa said through a team interpreter. “I’m feeling good, having fun, and staying in rhythm after a lot of at-bats in spring training. I’m just doing whatever the team needs from me.”

Sosa continued his hot start to the 2025 season, going 2-for-3 with two doubles. He has recorded two hits in each of the three games he’s played, going 6-for-11 with a walk and three doubles—maximizing his role off the bench.

“He’s crucial because injuries happen over a long season,” said manager Rob Thomson. “He can play almost anywhere in the infield, and when he gets the chance, he performs.”

While Sosa may not be an everyday starter—his aggressive approach at the plate could be exposed over time—he has established himself as a valuable depth piece for Philadelphia. Since arriving from the Cardinals in 2022, he has excelled in a supporting role, stepping in when needed and giving regulars a break.

Understanding his role, Sosa remains prepared to contribute whenever called upon. “The Phillies took a chance on me in 2022 when I wasn’t getting many opportunities elsewhere,” he said. “From day one, they embraced me, and that’s motivated me to give my best every day.”

On Monday, with the Phillies down a run and two outs in the seventh, Sosa came through with a 103 mph line drive to ignite a rally. Kyle Schwarber followed with a two-run homer, and Max Kepler and Nick Castellanos added back-to-back blasts in the eighth to seal the victory—all sparked by Sosa’s clutch hit.

“He’s been phenomenal,” Schwarber said. “With Trea out, having someone step in without missing a beat—both offensively and defensively—is huge.”

Sosa’s opportunities may soon decrease with Turner (low back spasm) nearing a return—he pinch-hit in the seventh and later scored on Sosa’s hit. But even as his playing time diminishes, the Phillies know Sosa will stay ready.

“He’s an incredible player and teammate,” Schwarber added. “A special talent who does things the right way.”