Almost a week ago, the Phillies wrapped up yet another playoff berth. For the fourth straight year, Philadelphia will get to witness October baseball.
However, this season, it feels a bit different. For the first time, the Phillies appear to be entering the postseason with unquestionably the strongest roster in the National League.
They have the best record in all of Major League Baseball, and have the highest run differential in the NL as well.
Anticipation has turned into entitlement. This year, fans aren’t just hoping for a World Series berth; they are expecting it.
It is a dangerous attitude. While the Phillies have the best team on paper, a short series can result in upsets. A bad pitching performance, a few errors, or an offensive cold streak could cause the heavily-favored Phils to make an early exit.
But it will be the opposition that will be most likely to derail the Phillies chances at another World Series.
Each of the current NL playoff contenders could give the Phillies trouble in the postseason. While Philadelphia will be favored in each matchup, their opponents made the playoffs for a reason.
So which teams have the best chance to defeat the Phillies in the National League playoffs?