On paper, sitting second in the National League East, with the fifth-best record in the MLB, sounds like a fantastic start for the Phillies. But when looking further, problems are beginning to arise for the team that could impact their postseason chances as the season continues.
From before the first pitch of the season was thrown, question marks around the quality of the Phillies’ bullpen were already rising. Could a quiet offseason with lower-risk signings make up for the losses of two all-stars in Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez? So far, not so much.
The Phillies bullpen ranks 25th among 30 MLB teams in ERA, and third worst in the National League. New addition Jordan Romano, who has been thrown into the closer role, has struggled to finish out games at times, pitching to a poor 7.36 ERA. Additionally, Jose Alvarado’s 80 game suspension for violation of the MLB’s drug usage policy, has seriously hurt the bullpen.
Aside from the bullpen’s ongoing struggles, the Phillies offense still feels like they are in early-season form, as the team has struggled to build real momentum. Without Kyle Schwarber’s unbelievable power and plate discipline, the crowd at the bank would have little to cheer for. No one aside from Schwarber has hit double-digit home runs, and extended slumps from JT Realmuto, Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm,and Brandon Marsh have put a damper on the offense.
Finally, the rotation, which has been the Phillies’ unwavering strength over the past few seasons, has seen growing uncertainties as well. Aaron Nola’s career-worst start and injury has meant the team’s most reliable arm no longer holds that position. Additionally, Ranger Suarez’s lingering back injury, and Taijuan Walker’s permanent transition to a bullpen arm signals the Phillies will have less “sure things” to call on for a quality start.
Although it is never a good idea to ring the warning bell for a team that is comfortably above .500, the Phillies have seen more question marks than ever in 2025. With the team’s championship window shrinking as their stars continue to age, it remains to be seen how the Phillies’ future will play out.