This Philadelphia Phillies season has shown what the upside can be for a team that spends the money needed to succeed at the major league level. The Phillies are about to wrap up their 2024 campaign with at least 94 wins on the year. Their best since the infamous 2011 year when the club won 102 games.
The beginning of the year showcased the best of what this Phillies team can be and the full potential of the roster. The season dragged on and showed the Phillies' dip in production which fostered memories of 1964.
In fear of that being duplicated and backed by a top-10 pitching staff and offense that can put up runs in a hurry, the Phillies pulled themselves out of their elongated slump and took series against top teams in MLB to put the final touches on their winning season.
Add another historic accolade to the Phillies' incredible season
This winning season now comes with a division crown, a first-round bye and now another increase in their win total. Per Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports, with the Phillies securing a mid-90s winning season, they have now increased their win total from the previous year in six consecutive seasons (not counting the shortened 2020 season). This is the first time this has been accomplished in the 148-year history of the National League.
Here are the Phillies' win totals since a 66-win season in 2017:
Year | Win | Loss |
|---|---|---|
2024 | 94 | 67 |
2023 | 90 | 72 |
2022 | 87 | 75 |
2021 | 82 | 80 |
2020 | 28 | 32 |
2019 | 81 | 81 |
2018 | 80 | 62 |
This increase in their win total is impressive in its own right, but it's a major credit to the pivot the team has taken since the opportunity of playing in the postseason seemed attainable. The bringing in of stars and injection of younger talent has spawned an identity that has made it undeniable (subscription required), per Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer. The philosophy of the team changed and proved them to be a perennial World Series contender.
Nothing is guaranteed in the sport of baseball. It is very difficult to contend every year and be in the mix. The Phillies have done just that in six consecutive seasons. They've bettered themselves and have continued to add until the title comes back to Philadelphia.