The 1983 NLCS vs Expos

Lore & Background

The narrative arc of the 1983 NLCS is defined by Mike Schmidt's heroic performance. After struggling in Game 6, which saw the Expos force a decider back in Philadelphia, Schmidt delivered an iconic two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 7 to secure the pennant. This moment transformed him from a great player into an immortal figure for the city, cementing the 'Wheeze Kids' moniker as a badge of honor rather than an insult.

Reader's Guide

The series reached its climax in Game 7 at Veterans Stadium after the Expos had taken Game 6 to force the decider. The Phillies trailed late in the game, with the Expos' bullpen looking poised to close out the pennant. With two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning and a runner on base, Mike Schmidt faced the Expos' closer. Schmidt connected on a pitch that would become legendary, launching a two-run home run into the right-field stands. The blast instantly turned the tide, giving Philadelphia a 4-3 series victory and their first National League pennant in thirty-three years. This moment is etched in lore because it was the culmination of a season defined by grit and the specific triumph of a veteran leader delivering when all else failed. The victory propelled the 'Wheeze Kids' to the World Series, where they would eventually capture their first championship title since 1950. It remains one of the most celebrated moments in franchise history, symbolizing the end of an era of heartbreak and the beginning of a golden age.

Did You Know?

• This victory ended a 33-year drought for Philadelphia, as they had not reached the World Series since 1950.
• The Expos had won the National League East by 12 games over the Phillies in the regular season before falling in the playoffs.