During the past couple of MLB playoffs, the Philadelphia Phillies made various roster moves with hopes that they would pay off in helping them to succeed. However, in the end, they fell short both in 2022 and 2023 in their quest to capture the World Series title.
Now entering their third consecutive postseason, perhaps manager Rob Thomson and his staff should try something out of the ordinary just to see if an unexpected strategy can put them over the top in this year's playoffs. As a result, let’s take a look at some controversial postseason roster moves that the Phillies should make in 2024 which could turn out to be the difference they had been looking for.
4 controversial postseason roster moves the Phillies should make in 2024 (but won't)
Bat superstar Bryce Harper in the leadoff spot
One of the most intriguing roster strategies that the Phillies can implement heading into the playoffs is inserting star first baseman Bryce Harper into the leadoff position in the lineup. When you have one of the best hitters in the league, you want the opposition to face your star player as many times as possible to maximize damage. After all, that's exactly how phenom Shohei Ohtani is deployed by the Los Angeles Dodgers, as he is the perfect example of how it should be done just looking at the results.
Moreover, Harper ranked in the top 10 in the league in on-base percentage and OPS and just outside the top 10 for walks this year. Added to the fact that he averaged double-digits in stolen bases for his career, he would be the ideal leadoff hitter plus the bonus power with his bat. In addition, his .373 OBP in 2024 even put him ahead of teammate Kyle Schwarber, who has been the Phillies leadoff hitter all season. As a result, the high-risk, high-reward move could end up paying huge dividends for Philadelphia if they choose to pursue it.
Utilize a three-man rotation
Teams have generally avoided utilizing a three-man rotation during the MLB Playoffs, in particular during this side of the century. After all, starting pitchers could begin to wear down as the postseason progresses due to overworking, especially when a series ends up lasting longer than expected. Also, it is more likely that a manager would rather go with an effective arm on regular rest than an elite pitcher who could struggle a bit on short rest.
However, despite such drawbacks, the Phillies might want to think twice about this potential option for the 2024 postseason. That is because Philadelphia has had only three pitchers who have been reliable and consistent all season: Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola and Cristopher Sánchez. Taijuan Walker had been a total disaster all year, injuries and all. Whereas for Ranger Suárez is far from the dominant form he displayed in the first half, as he hasn’t been the same since coming back from the IL.
Added to the fact that for all the makeshift rotation starters the Phillies tried in 2024, including the likes of Tyler Phillips, Kolby Allard, Michael Mercado and Seth Johnson, not a single candidate stood out to be a playoff option that should even be considered. As a result, they may have no choice but to go with their best three for success in this year’s MLB Playoffs.