Embed from Getty Images
4 – 1976 (101 – 61, NL East Champions, Lost NLCS)
In the first year of a three-year run as NL East Champions, the 1976 team was second in seven major offensive categories and three pitching categories. Mike Schmidt led the attack with 38 home runs and 109 RBI, while Greg Luzinski (21 HR, 95 RBI) and Garry Maddox (.330 average, 29 stolen bases) added to the potent lineup. Steve Carlton recorded 21 wins, while Jim Lonborg added 18. All five starters posted ERA’s in the 3’s, while the bullpen recorded an ERA under three. Unfortunately, after 101 regular season wins, the Phillies fell to the Reds in the NLCS.
3 – 1977 (101 – 61, NL East Champions, Lost NLCS)
Perhaps the most dominating team in franchise history, the 1977 team ranks third only because they didn’t win it all. They were first in seven major offensive and pitching categories and second in two others. Greg Luzinski hit .309 with 39 home runs and 130 RBI, finishing second in the MVP voting. Mike Schmidt added 38 HR and 101 RBI, while Garry Maddox (14 home runs, 74 RBI, .292 average) and Richie Hebner (18 home runs, .285 average) added to the attack. Steve Carlton won the Cy Young Award after winning 23 and the bullpen of Tug McGraw, Ron Reed, Warren Brusstar and Gene Garber all pitched to an ERA under 3. The Phillies lost to the Dodgers in four in the NLCS and would again in 1978.