Despite a disastrous beginning to the season for the Philadelphia Phillies, the team may finally be showing signs of improvement.
Heading into the week, the Phillies decided to part ways with manager Rob Thomson after a 9–19 start. This was likely the correct decision, and the timing made sense as the schedule was about to become more favorable.
Philadelphia had struggled against top-tier teams, with their offense particularly underperforming. Letting go of Thomson who had previously found success with the club was a strategic move to generate some momentum, and it appears to have worked.
Don Mattingly has now stepped in as manager, bringing extensive experience to the role. So far, the early results have been positive. Although the team still has a long road ahead to reach its goals, they are finally beginning to move in the right direction.
Will Leitch of MLB recently published his updated MLB Power Rankings. After a steep drop early in the season, the Phillies started climbing, moving from 25th to 21st.
The Rise Was Justified
Following a 5–1 week, the four-spot jump was well earned. It was the kind of week the Phillies desperately needed after a stretch of heavy losses.
The week began with a sweep of the San Francisco Giants a series that could become a memorable turning point if the team continues to recover. Philadelphia closed out the doubleheader with two walk-off victories.
Just a couple of weeks ago, such results would have seemed unlikely, but this could very well mark a shift in momentum. After sweeping the Giants at home, the Phillies traveled and took two of three games from the Miami Marlins over the weekend.
Though the series spans into Monday with one final game against Miami, the team ended the week on a highly encouraging note. As the Phillies aim to fight their way back into postseason contention, this past week served as an excellent kickoff following the managerial change.
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