One Last Hurrah

2014 seems to be gearing up to be the last hurrah for this Phillies team that has brought a lot of excitement to the great city of Philadelphia.  The core group that won this franchise a world series and a trip back in 2009 is still intact but is getting old and aren't at the top of their games like 2008.  Howard, Rollins, and Utley are still all under contract and will be back next year to give it another shot.  If these core three can stay healthy for a full year it can mean good things, but that doesn't seem to be the trend for the past 3 or so years.  Another welcome addition that has finally come into his own skin is Dominic Brown.  Brown had a superb breakout year in 2013 hitting 27 homers and was leading the league at one point.  The Phillies have some gaps in outfield and are still wondering who to put at third, but they could definitely make a run if some key players are put in those spots and perform.

One key acquisition that would take this team from good to great is Giancarlo Stanton.  The Marlins already blew up their team last year and moved most of their good players and Stanton has been looking for a way out.  If Phillies are able to dig deep and trade some prospects (if there are any left after making moves the last couple years) and grab Stanton that would fill the huge gap in outfield and give a much welcomed boost to the bats, with 23 HRs and a .365 OBP in 2013.  Stanton will most likely be looking for the big bucks come his contract year but he could be a franchise player and help a team out for many years to come.


What do you guys think?  Will the Phillies make the moves this off season to try and make a run or will they be stuck in mediocrity and have to blow up the team after 2014?


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Photo: Philly.com