Down the stretch they come and what a run they are on. What I’m watching-
1- Obviously, first and foremost seeding. Phillies have the best home record so #1 seed is still preferable. If they can’t run down the Brewers, conventional wisdom is they want the #2 seed to set their pitching and avoid first round. But we all see what rest can do to momentum but I assume they want #1 or #2 seeds. The rest would basically get your rotation lined up but more importantly allow JT to get off his feet for a rest.
2- Could Thomson be so bold to keep Bader in the leadoff if Turner returns? You would say no way but if Turner has any limitations and won’t use his legs, it’s up for debate. I think it becomes Turner, Schwarber, Harper, JT, Marsh, Bader, Bohm, Nick/Kepler, Stott. I think there are some real decisions but I like Stott on base before Turner to have speed before the big boys. But there are a ton of permutations.
3- I would be shocked if the three LHP’s are not 1-2-3. The 4 is interesting if you need 4 which you will need. I assume it’s Nola. The sneaky move Dombrowski made was Buehler. I think he was brought in as a pen guy and I think he could be effective.
So they have Buehler, Kerkering, Robertson, and Duran from the right side and Banks and Strahm from the left side. The big lefty acquired late might stick as well. Given how bad the pen was, I think they are in decent shape.
You have to like their chances as much as anyone’s. They are as confident a team I’ve seen.
