2 Lingering Concerns for the Phillies Heading into 2023

The Philadelphia Phillies are going all-out to win the World Series in 2023.

After coming up two games short last season, they have reloaded their roster and looked like one of the best on paper.

But, they still have some holes that need to be filled.

They already headed to shortstop by adding Trea Turner and starting pitcher with Taijuan Walker.

But here are two lingering concerns that could be the Phillies’ Achilles heel in 2023.

1. Bullpen depth

The Phillies have struggled with the bullpen in recent seasons.

Even though their bullpen was solid during their playoff run last season.

They need to add more depth.

One bullpen arm the Phillies have already added is Matt Strahm.

the #Phillies They have not finished! By @JeffPassanthe #Phillies and LHP Matt Strahm agreed to terms of a 2-year, $15 million contract.

After beefing up the lineup and rotation in recent days, PHI has turned its attention to the bullpen. Great achievement for a team with championship aspirations. pic.twitter.com/TSuKmVclnd

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 7, 2022

He is another lefty who can help along with José Alvarado.

But the Phillies just lost David Robertson to their rival, the New York Mets.

So adding a quality arm or two in the bullpen should be high on the Phillies’ list of priorities.

2. What will CF/DH look like?

Unfortunately for the Phillies, Bryce Harper is expected to miss the start of the season following offseason elbow surgery.

Therefore, it is imperative to find someone who can help replace Harper’s production.

Harper was arguably the best designated hitter in the MLB last year.

Replacing it will be very difficult, but he also missed a lot of time last year with a broken thumb.

Many eyes will be on Nick Castellanos and how he responds after a down year.

Also, the Phillies need more production from their center fielders.

This potential 2023 Phillies lineup is DANGEROUS 😳

Trea Turner–SS
Kyle Schwarber–LF
Bryce Harper – RF
J.T. Realmuto–C
Nick Castellanos – DH
Rhys Hoskins-1B
Alec Bohm – 3B
Bryson Stott-2B
Brandon Marsh–CF

— The Game Day MLB (@TheGameDayMLB) December 5, 2022

Brandon Marsh and Matt Vierling seem to be in a pack there, at least to start the year.

But, one of them will need to play an important role on offense.

If the Phillies can pull that off, this could become the most dangerous lineup in baseball.