Call to the pen
Fansided

3 reasons not to overreact to Philadelphia Phillies slow start

By Nick Halden

Mar 30, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola (27) leaves the game against the Texas Rangers during the fourth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 30, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola (27) leaves the game against the Texas Rangers during the fourth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 5, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) walks back to the dugout after striking out against the Houston Astros during the fourth inning in game six of the 2022 World Series at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) walks back to the dugout after striking out against the Houston Astros during the fourth inning in game six of the 2022 World Series at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Bryce Harper

All the news surrounding Bryce Harper seems to be encouraging and pointing to a sooner-than-expected return to the field. Despite losing Rhys Hoskins, this Phillies lineup is still deep with Bryce Harper.

Once Harper returns, this team isn’t going to have any issues scoring consistently. Harper’s presence was obviously missed through the first games of the season and pointed to the fact this team is going to struggle for the first weeks of the season until Harper returns.

If, however, the Phillies can tread water for the first month or two of the season as they did in 2022, once healthy, it is a roster that proved they can make up ground quickly.

In an extended playoff field, the Phillies can survive another rough start to the season aiming to get healthy and hot at the right time. It is worth noting as well that Philly accomplished this without Harper being completely healthy, something that makes this team’s possible ceiling even higher in 2023.

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