Is the Honeymoon Over?

So the Philadelphia Phillies, the last couple of weeks after Joe Girardi was let go, look like a team had a spark. Charlie Manuel’s philosophy of hitting season seemed to be in full effect. The feeling was that maybe a playoff push was in the cards? But now, after these last couple of games, it looks like the honeymoon is over, and here is why.

Struggles are Back

The struggles are real, and they are not spectacular. They were already significantly depleted with Bryce Harper with his elbow at first. He now has a blister on his finger and is missed a handful of games this season/ We can tell he is not a 100%, and it is hurting them dramatically. The good news is that he can be the DH this season. The bad news is he can’t field because of the sore elbow and has to let somebody like Nick Castellanos or Matt Vierling has to play defense more than initially expected.

The second thing is the struggles at the plate. According to Todd Zolecki, the Phillies top players, including Realmuto., Hoskins, and Castellanos, had a combined 8 for 60 in those two games in Texas.

The third thing, and probably the is the bullpen. The bullpen is terrible no matter who is throwing. Nothing has gone right with this bullpen for quite some time. From Jeurys Familia to Jose Alverado and even Corey Knebel taking out of the closer role, nothing has gone right with this bullpen. No matter who they bring in? It always looks like the Phillies get the wrong guy for the job.

The Division

This NL East is stacked. The Mets are running away with the Divison while the Braves are right next to them and looking to get that Wild Card Spot and four games back from the Mets. It could look like the Mets are the odd’s favorite for the Divison. As for the Phillies? They are losing ground and are eight and a half back after the two games in Texas and the last game in Washington.

Will the Phillies make a trade by the deadline? If they do, who would fix the void? The bullpen is the most glaring hole. It would take somebody like Mark Melancon, and his record isn’t soothing, but he does get strikeouts and has a similar record to Knebel. Melancon does get saves when called upon. Possibly one more bat could be beneficial. Trea Turner would be a naturally good fit in Philly. His batting avg .312. The Phillies need a player because we will be without Jean Segura until maybe late August-early September depending on setbacks.

The clock is ticking if they want to make a Red October happen. My guess is to start looking at the Phillies either could make a push to the playoffs or will be golfing come the first week of October on another disappointing season. We will see. If the honeymoon is over fans will be in for a long summer.

James Scorza

James Scorza is a Co-Host of the Pattison Ave Phanatics on Edge of Philly Sports. James attended the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. He loves Sports and Music and has an encyclopedic knowledge of all things Philadelphia Sports. He may be young but is knowledgeable beyond his years.