The Philadelphia Phillies have shown their strength by taking three out of four games from the Atlanta Braves, giving them a comfortable seven-game lead in the NL East as they head into the final month of the regular season. After a challenging August and part of July, the Phillies have now secured wins against the Royals, Astros, and their division rivals, the Braves, providing a much-needed boost as they approach the postseason.
While their position in the division is promising, the Phillies are not out of the woods just yet. However, recent victories have significantly improved their outlook compared to just a couple of weeks ago, creating excitement as they push towards October baseball.
Let’s take a look at where the Phillies stand in the latest MLB power rankings…
MLB.com: 3rd
According to MLB.com, the Phillies are ranked third behind the Dodgers and Yankees, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in baseball. The performance in August, although challenging, has not gone unnoticed.
Heading into Sunday night’s game, it was clear that the Phillies had raised their game against elite competition. Over a nine-game stretch against likely playoff teams, the Phillies went 6-3 with an impressive 1.48 ERA in those wins, showcasing their capabilities against tough opponents.
These recent victories against strong teams highlight the Phillies’ potential and resilience.
ESPN: 3rd
ESPN’s ranking also puts the Phillies in third place, just behind the Yankees and Dodgers. Despite challenges earlier in the season, the Phillies have shown significant progress and determination in recent weeks.
Some interesting facts to note about the Phillies:
- Alec Bohm is on the verge of reaching 100 RBIs, a milestone no Phillies third baseman has hit since 2001.
- Kyle Schwarber’s performance against different pitcher types showcases his versatility.
- Trea Turner’s impressive hitting has put him in elite company among Phillies shortstops.
- Adjustments in the pitching rotation show the team’s commitment to securing wins in crucial series.
The Phillies have demonstrated adaptability and a strong resolve as they navigate the challenges of the season.
Bleacher Report: 2nd
Recent performances suggest that the Phillies are on an upward trajectory, as highlighted by Zachary Rymer:
Although the Phillies faced difficulties earlier in the season, their recent strong week has positioned them well with a 12-6 record in their last 18 games.
Key players like Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola have been instrumental to the team’s success, with Wheeler boasting an impressive 1.62 ERA in August.
The Score: 2nd
For the Phillies to secure their division lead, they will need key players like Bryce Harper performing at their best, despite lingering injuries:
The Phillies remain in control of the NL East, but Harper’s resurgence will be crucial in the final stretch, especially with recent struggles in August.
USA Today: 2nd
Recognition of Zack Wheeler’s standout performance underlines his importance to the Phillies’ success:
Wheeler’s exceptional 2.63 ERA has been a driving force for the team, showcasing his capabilities and impact on their performance.
The Phillies’ journey towards the postseason continues, with each game bringing them closer to their ultimate goal. As we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, let’s continue to support our team and cheer them on as they chase victory.
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