In 2024, which Phillies will be the focus of attention and have the most to prove to the team, fans, and the media?
Even though the 2024 season is still a ways off, we can start planning for it now that we have so much free time during the offseason. The Philadelphia Phillies had several players at the end of the 2023 season who left more questions than answers, ranging from inexperienced rookies to seasoned veterans to superstar players.
Many believed that the Phillies, in their most recent incarnation, ought to have returned to the World Series for a second consecutive year; in all honesty, the red carpet was rolled out for them; they simply tripped on the edge. With their 2022 record of 87-75 improved to 90-72 this past season, it appeared that the assembled roster was bigger and better and would take the next step toward Philadelphia sports immortality.
Sadly, it was not intended to be.
Given the elevated anticipations for 2024, which players will be closely watched?
The Phillies who have the most to prove in the upcoming season are listed below. Throughout the six-month grind of the regular season and into the postseason, as well as during Spring Training and Opening Day, the team and the fans will be looking to these players for answers.
We’ll begin with a few younger players who are attempting to make a name for themselves and launch their major league careers. Will these recent additions to the Phillies roster be able to establish themselves in the Major Leagues by 2024? Will they learn their lessons and end up back in Triple-A, or will they make a mistake and be given another chance?
Next, we’ll see how a few veterans are doing. Looking at such seasoned major leaguers—especially a couple of superstar caliber players—may seem strange. However, the Phillies had an interesting 2023 season and will undoubtedly have an opportunity to prove themselves in 2024.
First up, a rookie pitcher…