Spring Training might be around the corner, but it is time to look back on previous iterations of Phillies baseball. They always say one should learn from their past, and I think the 2010 Philadelphia Phillies is an excellent team for this year’s club to learn from.
The last time the Phillies entered Spring Training as the reigning National League champions was heading into the 2010 Spring Training season. Coming off a disappointing loss to the New York Yankees in the ’09 World Series, Philadelphia had won back-to-back National League pennants and, of course, the 2008 World Series.
There are a lot of similarities between these two clubs, and I think that if history can teach us anything, we are in for a fun ride this season.
Phillies Big Name Acquisitions
Philadelphia made a huge splash this off-season by bringing in All-Star shortstop Trea Turner. Turner signed a mega deal worth 300 million dollars over 11 seasons.
Heading into the 2010 season, the Phillies also made a huge splash, but this time in the form of a trade. In a huge trade, the team acquired starting pitcher Roy Halladay from the Toronto Blue Jays, sending three prospects back in return.
In both cases, the Phils were making a statement. They were making it clear that they were all in on a World Series and planned to do whatever it took.
While I am not saying that Trea Turner is Roy Halladay, I believe the similarity in big-name talent is a meaningful comparison. If Turner can give the Phillies a performance like Halladay did in 2010, he will win the National League MVP.
An Experienced Core
Heading into 2010, the Phillies had just made three straight playoff appearances, won two NL pennants, and a World Series. While the 2023 Phillies are coming off their first playoff appearance in 11 seasons, they are also coming off an NL pennant and championship appearance.
Both teams were full of veteran players with playoff experience, which was vital for helping the newer players. The ’10 Phillies had former MVPs in Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard, as well as guys like Chase Utley, Shane Victorino, and Cole Hamels.
The ’23 Phillies also bolster a roster full of players with a lot of post-season experience. Guys like Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Craig Kimbrel. Not to mention all the players who made the post-season for the first time last season.
Both teams were heading into the season with most of their roster already constructed. Aside from some bench pieces and the bullpen, neither club had any real areas of weakness.
As we see with our current iteration of the Phils, there isn’t too much competition heading into the season. Andrew Painter or Bailey Falter will likely fill the 5th starter spot, and the bench seems fairly set with Darick Hall, Josh Harrison, Edmundo Sosa, Dalton Guthrie, and Garrett Stubbs.
Results May Vary
The 2010 Phillies were a historic bunch in Philly sports history. The no-hitter and perfect games thrown by Roy Halladay, the 4th straight NL Championship, and heading to their third straight NLCS were all remarkable accomplishments.
While I am not expecting Zack Wheeler or Aaron Nola to throw both a no-hitter and perfect game this season, I expect the same playoff success to exist for the Phillies.
This team is expected to make the playoffs this season and to compete for a National League East title. While the Mets and Braves are both outstanding teams, the Phillies should be able to hold their own.
Getting back to the post-season and competing is a requirement for the Phils in 2023, just like in 2010. The fans are on board and are ready to go on another magic ride of Phillies baseball, now we just have to wait and see how this year will unfold.
Photo Credit: AP Photo/Scott Kane
