The Philadelphia Phillies were eliminated from the NLDS by the Mets in four games. Although they managed a walk-off win from Nick Castellanos, inconsistent performances from both the bullpen and lineup were their downfall. After three consecutive seasons of playoff disappointment, the team may need changes to keep their championship window open. ESPN’s Jeff Passan warns that the window could be closing, noting that seven of the Phillies’ core players will be in their 30s by Opening Day next season, including J.T. Realmuto, Zack Wheeler, Nick Castellanos, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Aaron Nola, and Trea Turner.
While many of these players are All-Star caliber and key to the Phillies’ postseason runs, Passan emphasizes that the team needs to inject younger talent. The Phillies have prospects in their farm system to shake things up, but Passan cautions that a roster heavy with 30-somethings is on the verge of decline. The organization is aware of this and is expected to take action in the offseason.
The Phillies’ struggles, which began before the All-Star break, need to be addressed if they want to remain competitive in the NL East next year.