Let's help Rob Thomson figure out Game 3's pitching plan

Instead of offering more criticism, let’s try offering solutions.

It’s (clearly) been a rough 2025 NLDS for Phillies manager Rob Thomson. Game 1’s bullpen decisions (having David Robertson come out for the seventh inning, allowing Matt Strahm to face both Mookie Betts and Teoscar Hernandez) were poor. And the ninth inning bunt in Game 2 was the worst decision of his managerial career—and potentially an era-defining moment.

As for tonight? We know the Phillies are (for reasons I don’t truly understand) starting Aaron Nola.

After that?

Here’s how Topper should divvy up 27 outs to get the Phillies to Game 4.