Prediction: The Phillies Will Improve Last Year's Record

After finishing 81-81, the Phillies faced many questions regarding their health and talent. The most important question is, will they contend for a playoff spot in 2013?

The Phillies have plenty of pitching depth in the minor leagues, which is gold when trading for big league stars. This offseason, they faced many problems in the outfield, in the bullpen, and at third base. They answered this by acquiring Ben Revere (OF), Delmon Young (OF), Michael Young (3B), Mike Adams (RP), and John Lannan (SP). I believe these moves were cost-effective, but could truly help their team.

Question marks surround Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, and Roy Halladay concerning injuries, but they each get a full Spring Training to prove that they can play a full 162 games at a high-level. Howard and Utley haven't had a full Spring in two years!

They've got good youth and talent, so Phillies fans, last year could be a fluke. They made good trades at the deadline last year, and could get back in the playoffs, either this year or next, partly due to the fact that there are two Wild Cards. Honestly, I think the Phillies could still be an up and coming team.

Projected finish: 90-72 3rd NL East. Contending for the 2nd Wild Card.