PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (71-91), 4TH, NL EAST
uSeason snapshot: While the Phillies won more games this year than they did in 2015, it’s hard to say what that means for the team’s rebuilding process. None of the position players had a strong enough season to become established as a definite part of the future, and while some of the young pitchers showed promise, too many of them finished the season injured.
and were on the disabled list, and Eflin needed knee surgery. Meanwhile, the team’s top prospect, shortstop
didn’t perform well enough to earn a call-up. Still, there were signs of encouragement. The Phillies started the season strong, manager
won plaudits in his first full-time job and center fielder improved his plate discipline and made the All-Star team. And who never made it when he was a top catching prospect, emerged as a new power option at first base. Starting pitchers
and acquired last year in trades for Cole Hamels and Ken Giles, showed promise. Meanwhile, the Phillies said goodbye to Carlos Ruiz and
the last two players left from their 2008 champions.
uWhat now: As the rebuilding process continues, the Phillies will need to decide how much focus to put on seeking improvement in 2017 and thus how to play the free agent and trade markets. Scouts praised the talent on their Class AA Reading (Pa.) team, so there is hope for the future. The question is how fast things can change at Citizens Bank Park after four consecutive seasons of at least 89 losses.
uFree agent focus: The Phillies surprised a lot of people when they didn’t trade veteran starter in July, and now they have to decide what to do with Hellickson as a free agent. They’ll need to extend him the qualifying offer to gain a draft pick if he signs elsewhere (assuming the system doesn’t change in the next month). But the qualifying offer is expected to be more than $16 million; would they be willing to pay Hellickson that if he accepts? Or do they simply attempt to sign him themselves?
uProspects to watch: Crawford remains the team’s top prospect despite an underwhelming season, but the Phillies have other players besides him. They got September looks at catcher and speedy outfielder they’re excited about outfielder
the top overall pick in the June draft. Danny Knobler and