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Bryce Harper and the Phillies were unable to return to the World Series in 2024. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Let’s examine the 2024 season for the Philadelphia Phillies, the challenges that lie ahead this winter, and an early forecast for 2025.
Read more: 2024 MLB offseason previews: What’s next for the Brewers, Astros, Orioles and more?
Postseason Result
The Phillies fell to the Mets in a four-game series during the NLDS. The bullpen was their Achilles’ heel, as a late-game collapse in Game 1 allowed the Mets to stage a comeback after a stellar performance by Zack Wheeler, while a grand slam by Francisco Lindor in Game 4 capped their October exit.
Despite winning a nail-biting Game 2, they struggled against Mets starter Sean Manaea in Game 3. With a mindset focused on winning the World Series, the Phillies regrettably did not secure a postseason series victory.
Positive Highlights
Not only did the Phillies clinch their first NL East championship since 2011, but they also distanced themselves from their rivals, establishing an 8.5-game lead by the All-Star break. The team competed fiercely against teams like the Dodgers and Yankees to achieve the best record in Major League Baseball, ultimately securing the No. 2 seed in the National League.
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.81 ERA. Both Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Cristopher Sánchez achieved an ERA below 3.60 across more than 180 innings, a remarkable accomplishment unmatched by any other team’s three starters. Ranger Suárez also had a standout season with a 3.46 ERA over 150.2 innings.
Things that went wrong
This year in Philadelphia saw few significant disappointments, but Whit Merrifield fell short of expectations. The 35-year-old was anticipated to play the role of a super-utility player after signing a one-year contract in February. Instead, Merrifield posted a .199 batting average and a .572 OPS before his release on July 12. His performance weakened the bench options for the team.
Nick Castellanos stood out as the only major player who faced a disappointing season. Last year, the 32-year-old recorded a .272 average with 29 home runs and 106 RBIs, but this season he managed only a .254 average with 23 homers and 86 RBIs. Much of his struggle was evident in the first half of the season (.680 OPS), though he appeared to regain form after the All-Star break (.839 OPS). Additionally, Castellanos remained one of the least effective defensive right fielders in baseball.
However, Castellanos delivered a notable performance in Game 2 of the NLDS, hitting a home run in the sixth inning and driving in the game-winning run in the bottom of the ninth. He concluded the series with a 7-for-17 record and a 1.059 OPS.
Offseason plans
The downside is that many vital hitters for the Phillies are over 30 years old. The upside is that they are all exceptional players still under team control through 2025. J.T. Realmuto is set for his final year of a $115 million contract and will continue his role behind the plate. Harper (first base), Bryson Stott (second base), Alec Bohm (third base), and Trea Turner (shortstop) are all secured for several more years in their starting roles. Schwarber excels as the DH and has one remaining year on his contract.
The outfield setup appears mostly established as well. Castellanos will occupy right field, while Brandon Marsh will be positioned as the left fielder against right-handed pitchers. Acquired from Baltimore in July, Austin Hays brings a right-handed batting option to share time with Marsh, and he is capable of playing right or center field. Johan Rojas will need to compete for his spot. The speedy defender can create opportunities on the basepaths, but his batting skills are lacking. The front office must decide whether it can accommodate Rojas at the bottom of an otherwise strong lineup.
The team’s rotation is looking solid, as Wheeler, Nola, Sánchez, and Suárez are all under contract. Taijuan Walker has not met expectations during his two seasons with the Phillies, but with two years remaining on an $18 million contract per season, he will get a chance to claim the final spot in the rotation. Tyler Phillips, who showed inconsistency as a rookie this year, is another candidate for that role.
It is fortunate that the rotation and lineup are mostly established since the Phillies’ bullpen requires significant improvements, with Carlos Estévez, Jeff Hoffman, and Matt Strahm all entering free agency. Returning talent includes José Alvar
He will need to regain his form in the minors but is expected to make his debut with Philadelphia during the first half of 2025. If not for the surgery, the 21-year-old would likely already be part of the Phillies’ rotation.
Mick Abel’s journey through the minors has been inconsistent since he was drafted in the first round in 2020. The 23-year-old has demonstrated considerable swing-and-miss potential while struggling significantly to manage walks, particularly at the Triple-A level this season. Abel is poised to make his debut with the Phillies soon but still has much to demonstrate before earning a regular spot in Philadelphia’s rotation.
Goals for 2025
Currently, there are no moral victories for an organization that has enjoyed a winning record for four consecutive seasons and has made three consecutive postseason appearances. Given an aging roster coupled with several talented pitchers, Philadelphia’s opportunity to break through and secure the franchise’s first World Series title since 2008 is as favorable as it will ever be.
President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski and general manager Sam Fuld could choose to maintain the status quo this winter, still fielding one of baseball’s top rosters next season. However, they can elevate this team by adding high-caliber talent to the bullpen. This addition will be critical, especially in light of an anticipated resurgence from the Braves, who previously won six consecutive division titles before facing a challenging stretch due to injuries and slumps this year.
Fantasy focus
There will be ample Phillies players selected in the early rounds of fantasy drafts. Harper and Turner are expected to be the first team members picked, likely in Round 2. They will be followed by Wheeler and Nola, with Wheeler being chosen as a fantasy ace and Nola serving as a No. 2 starter. Schwarber is also projected to be an early-round selection, while Castellanos, Realmuto, Stott, Sánchez, and Suárez will all provide viable options in the middle rounds. Should the team finalize a closer prior to spring training, he will also be a sought-after fantasy pick.
2024 Season Recap: The Philadelphia Phillies Fall Short Again in Quest for the World Series
Overview of the 2024 Season
The 2024 MLB season has been one of anticipation and high hopes for the Philadelphia Phillies. After a promising 2023 season, where they reached the postseason, fans expected a deep playoff run. However, the Phillies faced challenges that ultimately led to another disappointing exit from the quest for the World Series. This article delves into the key moments, player performances, and strategic decisions that defined the season.
Season Highlights
- Strong Start: The Phillies kicked off the season with an impressive series of wins, showcasing their offensive firepower and solid pitching rotation.
- All-Star Performances: Key players such as Bryce Harper and Zack Wheeler earned All-Star selections, demonstrating their vital roles in the team’s success.
- Playoff Push: A mid-season surge kept the Phillies in contention for the National League East title, as they battled fiercely with the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets.
Key Players and Their Impact
Bryce Harper
Bryce Harper proved to be a cornerstone for the Phillies throughout the season. His ability to drive in runs and maintain a high on-base percentage made him a crucial asset.
Zack Wheeler
Wheeler’s performances on the mound were instrumental in securing vital victories. His strikeout capabilities and resilience in high-pressure situations solidified his status as an ace.
Young Talent: Mark Vientos
Despite his potential, Mark Vientos faced challenges, including critical errors in the playoffs that impacted the team’s performance. In a recent playoff game against the New York Mets, an error allowed a run to score, showcasing the pitfalls of relying on young talent in high-stakes moments [[1](https://www.espn.co.uk/mlb/recap?gameId=401701021)].
Critical Moments in the Playoffs
NLDS Struggles
The Phillies faced the New York Mets in the National League Division Series, a matchup that promised excitement but quickly turned into a struggle. The series highlighted several moments that could have shifted the momentum:
- Game 1: Defensive Errors: As mentioned, a costly error by Vientos allowed the Mets to score, setting a negative tone for the series.
- Inconsistent Pitching: Despite stellar performances from Wheeler, inconsistent outings from the bullpen contributed to the team’s downfall.
Offensive Woes
Throughout the playoffs, the Phillies struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Key players went cold at critical moments, leaving fans frustrated and hopeful for a different outcome in future seasons.
Fan Reactions and Team Morale
As the dust settled on another season of unmet expectations, fan reactions ranged from disappointment to optimism for the future. The loyal Phillies fanbase remains passionate, believing that with the right adjustments, the team can contend for the World Series in the coming years.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Phillies?
Off-Season Changes
The Phillies will need to evaluate their roster and make strategic moves during the off-season. This includes:
- Assessing the performance of young players like Vientos and determining their future roles.
- Strengthening the bullpen to ensure consistent support for starters.
- Exploring trade opportunities to acquire proven talent that can help in clutch situations.
Focus on Development
The organization must invest in player development to prevent errors and inconsistencies seen in the playoffs. Enhanced training programs and mentorship for younger players could pay dividends in future seasons.
Conclusion
The 2024 season was another chapter of promise and disappointment for the Philadelphia Phillies. While the quest for the World Series ended prematurely, the team’s performance showcased both strengths and weaknesses that can be addressed moving forward. With the right adjustments and a focus on player development, the Phillies could emerge as serious contenders again in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What were the key reasons for the Phillies’ early exit in the playoffs?
Inconsistent pitching, critical defensive errors, and missed scoring opportunities contributed significantly to their early exit.
Who were the standout players for the Phillies in 2024?
Bryce Harper and Zack Wheeler were standout performers, with Harper excelling in offense and Wheeler leading the pitching staff.
What changes are expected in the Phillies’ roster for the 2025 season?
The organization is likely to assess young talent like Vientos and may look for strategic trades to bolster their roster, particularly in the bullpen.
