By Skip Charles in Vegas
The Phillies won 82 games a year ago and missed out on a playoff berth, and they have loaded with hitters:
Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber to a lineup that already included power hitters Bryce Harper and Rhys Hoskins.
The Phillies should have no problem scoring runs but their playoff hopes will likely hinge on their pitching. They have some good arms in Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola and Ranger Suarez, but consistency has been a problem for all three. If the Phillies can get that consistency from these guys, they have a great chance of making it.
One major reason the Phillies are favored not to make the playoffs is the difficulty of the NL East. The Braves are the defending champs, while the Mets may have the best rotation in baseball with the addition of Max Scherzer.
| Option | Odds |
|---|---|
| To make the playoffs | -110 |
| To miss the playoffs | -130 |
Odds as of April 2 at Bovada
