The Philadelphia Phillies have become a postseason fixture in recent years. After coming within one win of a second straight National League pennant last October, the team is once again setting its sights on a deep playoff run in 2024. With the MLB playoffs fast approaching, the Phillies are well-positioned to make another trip to the Fall Classic.

As of Thursday, the Phillies boast the best record in baseball, narrowly edging out the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both teams are almost assured of a first-round bye, but securing the top seed would give home-field advantage throughout the World Series. For Philadelphia, where the fan base is famously passionate, that advantage could play a pivotal role in their championship quest.

With momentum building at the right time, the Phillies’ offense is firing on all cylinders. Kyle Schwarber continues to deliver power at the plate, while Bryce Harper is consistently finding ways to get on base. Harper hasn’t homered in over a month but has collected 17 doubles since August and boasts a .970 OPS over his last 15 games. Once again, Harper will be the driving force behind the Phillies’ offense in October, supported by a talented roster. However, some players will need to elevate their game for the team to realize its postseason potential.

Nick Castellanos: Time to Turn Things Around

One player who needs a strong finish to the regular season is outfielder Nick Castellanos. Despite being the only Phillies player to appear in every game this season, Castellanos has had an up-and-down year. He struggled early on but found his groove after the All-Star break, only to hit another slump in recent weeks. Over the past 15 games, Castellanos has hit below .200, with 12 RBIs, 14 strikeouts, and an OPS under .700.

Castellanos’ ability to contribute without consistently hitting well has been valuable, but with the postseason looming, the Phillies will need more from him. While Harper, Schwarber, and Trea Turner have been carrying the lineup, it’s critical that other hitters like Castellanos step up in October.

Last postseason, Castellanos had several clutch moments at the plate, and the team will be counting on him to do the same this year. A late-season surge would not only help the Phillies but also boost Castellanos’ confidence heading into the playoffs.

With the Phillies’ postseason hopes hinging on a few key players, a strong finish from Castellanos—and others—will be crucial to their success as they look to make another deep playoff run.