Overlooking the Phillies: MLB Network’s Biased Focus on Braves and Dodgers in Top Teams Discussion…
The MLB Network’s recent discussion on ‘top teams’ during a segment on Hot Stove raised eyebrows as it disproportionately focused on the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers, sidelining other strong contenders.
Hosted by Mets enthusiast Keith Hernandez and Matt Vasgersian, the conversation overlooked defending World Series champions and NL teams that had outperformed the Braves and Dodgers in the last two playoffs.
This skewed narrative has become a recurring theme, with the Phillies consistently disregarded despite their elevated status in the past two postseasons.
The prevailing notion seems to downplay the significance of playoff success, despite the ultimate goal for any team being a World Series victory.
While acknowledging the undeniable talent of the Braves and Dodgers, it’s crucial to note their recent failure to reach the championship series, marking a substantial letdown.
In contrast, the Phillies have risen to prominence in the last two years, demonstrating their prowess during the postseason.
Despite the Braves’ dominant regular-season performances in 2022 and 2023, their shortcomings in the playoffs, coupled with the Phillies’ remarkable displays, have been sidelined in discussions.
The Phillies’ roster, with notable performances from key players like Bryce Harper, has showcased a unique, championship-caliber flair often absent in the current Braves and Dodgers lineups.
Looking ahead to the 2024 postseason, the MLB Network’s oversight extends beyond the Phillies, as other formidable teams like the recent World Series champions Texas and Houston receive only passing mentions.
The Baltimore Orioles, bolstered by the addition of Corbin Burnes, and a revamped New York Yankees team with Juan Soto and Marcus Stroman go unnoticed.
On paper, who are you taking right now: Dodgers or Braves? #MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/wUFHUxyTq3
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 29, 2024
Even perennial contenders like the Tampa Bay Rays and the defending NL Champion Arizona Diamondbacks, who made significant additions, are left out of consideration.
While the discussion revolves around payroll, individual performance, and regular-season wins, history cautions against underestimating the unpredictable nature of baseball. The Phillies, with their knack for performing at their peak during crucial moments, serve as a testament to the sport’s complexity.
MLB Network’s disregard for teams beyond the Braves and Dodgers might come back to haunt them, echoing the trend of pundits eating their words when faced with the reality of October baseball.
The recent history of World Series outcomes emphasizes that having the best regular-season record doesn’t guarantee postseason success, making the Phillies’ achievements even more noteworthy.
Phillies Emerge as Sleeper Contenders for Yankees Targets Montgomery and Bellinger…
The Philadelphia Phillies are being considered as potential dark horses to acquire either Jordan Montgomery or Cody Bellinger, two players who have been linked to the New York Yankees.
Despite the Yankees making significant offseason moves, they are not perceived as the top team in the American League East, with the Baltimore Orioles making a strong case after winning 101 games last season and acquiring pitcher Corbin Burnes in a notable trade.
While the Yankees were connected to Burnes, they were unable to finalize a deal, leaving room for the possibility of additional moves to strengthen the team.
Cody Bellinger and Jordan Montgomery have surfaced as potential targets for the Yankees, and the Phillies are now emerging as contenders to secure either player.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports, several executives believe that the Phillies could be sleeper candidates for the remaining marquee free agents.
The Phillies have made their mark by re-signing Aaron Nola, but acquiring Bellinger could bolster their lineup with Gold Glove-caliber defense and an added offensive threat. On the other hand, Montgomery could enhance their starting rotation.
Despite the potential benefits, the Phillies are reported to be patient unless the price tags for these players drop. The article suggests that, while another move for the Yankees makes sense to compete in the upcoming season, the likelihood of such moves for either team remains uncertain at this point.
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