There have been some ups and downs for the Philadelphia Phillies during the 2026 season, digging an early hole to climb out of. However, there has been one thing the team has been able to count on consistently thus far: ace Cristopher Sanchez. He has been excellent through his first nine starts of the year, leading the National League with a 2.6 bWAR. His performance has been excellent overall, but there is one thing that has stood out over his last two starts, both coming since Don Mattingly took over as manager from Rob Thomson : Sanchez is providing the team with length. It is something that has been an issue for the Phillies in the early going, putting too much pressure on the bullpen to eat innings. But Sanchez has made it a personal goal of his to work as late into games as possible. Cristopher Sanchez has taken game to another level May 5, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sanchez (61) plays against the Athletics at Citizens Bank Park.…