The Marlins flop and the Phillies take over

        The Phillies have been doing well this year standing upon a 49-43 record after beating the Marlins yesterday 4 to zip. That win followed a 10 to zip win the day before, and that game followed a 2-1 win the day before. To be short, the Phillies completely swept the rival Marlins, and have proven to the NL East that they are still a threat, even without reigning NL MVP, Bryce Harper. Last year around this time they were 45-45.

Yairo Munoz had a 2 run homer in the 4th inning.

                                    photo credit: ESPN

     Not that the record they boasted last year was any better, or that different, but the Phillies are definitely a different team than last year, starting with their pitcher. 

    Aaron Nola wasn't terrible last season, but showed much improvement this year. With a 0.91 WHIP and a 3.13 ERA this year, compared to his 1.13 WHIP and his 4.63 ERA last year, Nola has made a change, and it is affecting the team positively. 

Nola struck out ten batters vs the Marlins on Sunday

                                    photo credit: Philadelphia Inquirer

    Not to mention the fact that the Phillies also boast slugger Kyle Schwarber. As he is an ex -Red Sox, it is hard for me (a passionate Sox fan) to even credit him with any dignity, but I must say, his 29 home runs are really helping the team. 

        The team does look prepared for the playoffs, so as long as the it continues to play the way it has been, they will be a threat the rest of the season, and will be a good team in the playoffs.