by Dan Charapp ’25 on November 10, 2023
PCI
Disclaimer: This article was written prior to the elimination of this team from the MLB Playoffs.
The Philadelphia Phillies have made it to the NLCS and are trying to make it to the World Series for the second consecutive year. After beating an upstart Marlins team and upsetting the league-best Atlanta Braves in the Division Series, the Phillies are proving themselves as worthy contenders for a World Series ring. Trea Turner and Bryce Harper have both been crucial assets and show no signs of slowing down. The Phillies have the advantage of playing in the World Series last year, which gives them an edge in terms of experience against the Diamondbacks and the Rangers. Even if they end up facing the Astros in the Fall Classic, the Phillies have a better sense of how they play from competing against them last season. Philadelphia has one of the rowdiest fan bases in the nation, which has likely contributed to their undefeated record at home this postseason and is sure to benefit them going forward. The Rangers are in the postseason for the first time with their new core and slumped in the last couple months of the regular season. The Astros have not performed nearly as well as last season and won their division at the last minute due to the Rangers’ underperformance. Additionally, there has not been a repeat champion of the World Series in over two decades. Combine all these factors, and the Phillies are on a good pace for winning their first World Series title since 2008.