Boom of Bust: Are the Phillies Capable of Another Deep Run? By Hank Indictor

Not too long ago, I told you that the Dodgers have a 0% chance of going to the World Series, and I stand by that. And even tho it's not likely that they could get bounced in the NLDS by the Brewers, Cubs, or even the Marlins, it's not entirely out of the question. However, there is another team in the NL with a fascinating case. That team just so happens to be the reigning NL Champion Phillies. And here, I will talk about why the Phillies are a team that could be a very tough out in the postseason.

Let's not kid ourselves: the Phillies will have a difficult road to climb. Before we can even talk about the division series and a possible rematch with the juggernaut Braves, they must get through a Wild Card Series against somebody from the Wild Card Cluster. That team will most likely be the Diamondbacks. And remember, this is a best-of-3 series, so things could get dicey. However, as I said, we are discussing these reigning NL Champs. Remember that they came within two games of beating a seemingly unbeatable Astros squad in the World Series a year ago. Although the similarities from last year are there in that last year's team had to go through the Wild Card Series too and face the Braves in the NLDS, this year is also somewhat different. The experience they gained from that deep run means that people know what they can do. And if we look at things on paper, this year's team is better than last year's.

This lineup can mash. There's no question about it. Bryce Harper has been heating up since August after the slow start returning from Tommy John, Trea Turner is finally playing up to his 11-year $300 mega deal after receiving a massive ovation from the fans, Kyle Schwarber may be the definition of a three true outcome hitter, but that's a guy who can hit dingers when it counts. Other contributors to the lineup include guys like Alec Bohm and Nick Castellanos, who had big hits during their recent seven-game-winning streak. And, of course, J.T. Realmuto is one of the better catchers in baseball, too. And imagine if they miraculously get Rhys Hoskins back should they go deep! This is going to be a challenging lineup to face. And it's a mix of superstars in addition to some young talent. Johan Rojas wasn't expected to even be in the majors this season. Still, since his call-up, Rojas has shown flashes of potential with his highlight reel plays and his ability to come up clutch, which was evident when he got a walk-off single to punch the Phillies ticket into the postseason.

Pitching is where things can get interesting with the Phillies. Zack Wheeler is your obvious #1 starter. He's been their best pitcher all year, and you want to give him the ball in a big game. But afterward, it gets dicey. Aaron Nola is probably the most significant question mark, as he's had an up-and-down season, but the experience is there, and he still has good enough stuff to give you a good start. This is the year he hits Free Agency so he may find that extra motivation in the playoffs. And then, at number 3, there are a few options. Taijuan Walker would've made more sense earlier, but lately, he's struggled. They could also start Ranger Suárez, who could be strong out of the bullpen if needed. Cristopher Sanchez also has the potential to be an X factor, as he's been a solid five-starter down the stretch. The options are there. And then, in the bullpen, you've got weapons such as Craig Kimbrel, Jose Alvarado, Gregory Soto, Matt Strahm, and Jeff Hoffman. And don't be surprised if 22-year-old Orion Kerkering emerges as an unsung hero. In short, this team is deep and dangerous.

The way I see it, the Phillies' chances can be anything. They can even be a mystery box! They can lose early to the Diamondbacks in the Wild Card Round. This wouldn't be shocking because a pitcher such as Zac Gallen or Merrill Kelly (assuming they're in a position to pitch in the early games) can shut down their lineup, and suddenly they are in trouble. If they are lucky to get past Arizona, they can play the Braves in the NLDS. Now, don't get me wrong, the Braves are a team that has little to no flaws on that roster. On paper, they should steamroll the competition. But anything can happen in a short series. Heck, look what happened last year! If they get past the Division Series, whoever has to play them in a best of 7 next will have a challenging time. Especially since Citizens Bank Ballpark is no easy place to play come the postseason! I'm not saying this team will win the World Series, but what am I saying? To alter a line from ETB's Tom Albano, "Don't Disrespect the Phillies!"