Philadelphia Phillies 2023 MLB Season Predictions: Record, Team MVP, Breakout Candidate
It's Baseball Eve! At least that's what we like to call it here around Inside the Phillies. Opening Day is nearly upon us.
As such, we thought it pertinent, if not fun, to try and make a few predictions. Of course you can always refer to this at the end of the season to tell us just how right (or more likely wrong) we were here at the end of March!
Season Record Predictions:
Kade Kistner: 90-72
I think the Philadelphia Phillies improve upon their 87-win total from last year by a few wins. The division remains tough and it wasn't just Philadelphia who improved this offseason. The additions of Trea Turner, Taijuan Walker, and Gregory Soto go a long way in helping fill some holes. But the loss of Bryce Harper to start the season and Rhys Hoskins for the entire year are a blow.
They will be in the race for the division all season, but the first Wild Card spot seems to be the best bet for the Phillies this season.
Plus, I added one more than Andy just so I could be the good guy.
Andy Jasner: 89-73
Home Run Leader:
Kade Kistner: I'm not sure how you don't pick Kyle Schwarber after last season when he led the entire National League with 46. Couple that with the fact Bryce Harper is going to likely miss two months and it's a no-brainer.
Andy Jasner: Kyle Schwarber
Breakout Candidate:
Kade Kistner: I think this could really be Brandon Marsh's year. The team believes in him enough to make the everyday starting center fielder (for the most part). But his swing is smooth, the power is coming along, and he plays above-average defense in center.
I think this could be his year that his development turns the corner.
Andy Jasner: Nick Castellanos
Team MVP:
Kade Kistner: I am going with what I think is another "no-brainer" here in Trea Turner. Not only do I think he will be the team's MVP, but he very likely could end up as the National League MVP.
Turner has the ability to hit 25 home runs, bat over .300, play Gold Glove defense at a premium position, and could even steal 80 bases (if allowed).
If his World Baseball Classic performance was any indication of his upcoming MLB season, watch out.
Andy Jasner: Trea Turner
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