PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (53-42, 1ST PLACE, NL EAST)
BIG PICTURE
At the very least, the Phillies have shown they can end a string of five consecutive seasons with losing records. At best, they could return to the postseason for the first time since 2011. No matter what, they’ve shown themselves ready to move from rebuilding to contending. They’ve done it with talented young players such as Rhys Hoskins and Odubel Herrera in the lineup and with Aaron Nola developing into the ace the Phillies long hoped he could be. They’ve justified the late spring decision to invest $75 million in Jake Arrieta, who has pitched well and has been a leader.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Because Arrieta signed late in the spring, Nola was named the Phillies’ opening-day starter and went on to go 12-3 with a 2.30 ERA in 20 starts.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Seranthony Dominguez, who hadn’t pitched in the major leagues before this season, became the Phillies’ best reliever. He has a 1.60 ERA and nine saves.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Reliever Hector Neris lost the closer job and is in Class AAA for the second time this season.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The Phillies love Manny Machado, but it’s not clear how willing they will be to offer their top prospects for the Baltimore Orioles shortstop. They figure to add an infielder and/or a reliever.
KEY SERIES
vs. Atlanta Braves Sept. 28-30
Danny Knobler