The Philadelphia Phillies had a magical playoff run that saw them fall two wins shy of a World Series title.
Entering the playoffs as the six-seed in the National League, very few people thought a World Series run was possible.
Now that they have the taste of playing in the Fall Classic, what is it going to take for them to win it all next year?
Here are three changes the Phillies need to make this offseason.
1. Sign An Impact Bat
The one downfall of the Phillies in the World Series was their inability to score runs in Games 4-6.
They even became one of three teams ever to get no-hit in the playoffs.
Other than Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, no other Phillie consistently produced.
That is why they need to sign another elite hitter this offseason.
The top options for the Phillies include Trea Turner, Xander Bogaerts, Carlos Correa, and Jose Abreu.
“I imagine we are going to be the same team, but with some more pieces to make us that much better.”
Phillies are on Trea Turner watch. Video: @NBCSPhilly pic.twitter.com/feeSmT00QJ
— David Grzybowski (@DavidGrzyTV) November 6, 2022
Anyone of these players can become a middle-of-the-order force and help the Phillies get over the hump next year.
2. Acquire A Closer
The Phillies never had a true shutdown closer during their playoff run.
They would use Jose Alvarado, Seranthony Dominguez, Zach Eflin, or David Robertson in that spot depending on the situation.
Now is the time for them to get an elite closer.
Two names that come to mind as free agents are Kenley Jansen and Robert Suarez.
Jansen has been one of the best closers in the MLB for a long time while Suarez has the stuff capable to do the job.
Also, trading for any potential closer from a rebuilding team could be an option.
3. Find Pitching Depth
Another issue for the Phillies in the postseason was that starting pitching fell off down the stretch.
They got essentially nothing from Aaron Nola in the World Series, and so much pressure was place on Zack Wheeler.
While Ranger Suarez pitched well in the Fall Classic the Phillies still need more depth.
Some free agents that could interest them are Carlos Rodon, Nathan Eovaldi, or if they wanted to go real big, Jacob deGrom.
The Phillies have a good core in place, now they just need a few more key pieces to push them over the top.
NEXT: Is Bryce Harper Already A Phillies All-Time Legend?