MLB insider shares his bold prediction on the Phillies' season and pitching rotation
The Philadelphia Phillies came into the 2025 regular season as one of the top contenders in the National League. The club is loaded with talent and should be in the mix when the postseason rolls around. Despite their top-tier roster, the Phillies are not often discussed in World Series conversations.
This is something MLB insider Ken Rosenthal discussed in the latest episode of "Foul Territory." Rosenthal discussed the Phillies being overlooked when it comes to being considered World Series contenders due to the attention given to the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets.
Thanks to a core roster that features the likes of Zack Wheeler, Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber, Philadelphia has been dominant so far this season. While it is still early this year, the Phils are sitting atop the National League East with a 7-2 record, proving why they should be considered a threat for the title.
"The Phillies still have a consistent strong core. It's a group that's getting older, admittedly, but at the same time, they're really good. There's no question they're really good," Rosenthal said.
While Philadelphia's roster is getting older, they are still incredibly potent. That being said, Rosenthal believes that one of their major off-season acquisitions could be an X-factor for them this year. In an under-the-radar move this offseason, the Phillies acquired Jesus Luzardo from the Miami Marlins, a trade that has already been paying off this season.
"What is really interesting about them right now, is that if Jesus Luzardo is as good as he has shown early and can stay healthy, then a rotation that we already thought was really good, is that much better. Then it becomes a really intriguing thought for October... The Phillies will have an interesting mix if most of those pitchers can stay healthy," Rosenthal continued.
"I don't know that they're overlooked but they're really good. Would it shock me to see them in the World Series? No, it would not," Rosenthal added.
The Philadelphia Phillies may need to bolster their bullpen if they are going to make a World Series run
The Phils are one of the deepest teams in baseball, however, if there is an area that could be a cause for concern, it's their bullpen. One of their most notable moves this offseason was the signing of former Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano, who has struggled early on this year.
While it is still early and Romano could turn things around, the early results are concerning. Through 4.0 innings of work, Romano has posted a 15.75 ERA after surrendering 7 total runs in those appearances. If he cannot tighten things up, Philadelphia may need to explore the reliever market if they are going to make some noise in the postseason.