Phillies Bring Back Core Group to Make History

After three disappointing October exits, the Phillies are banking on their veteran core to finally win a World Series.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:05am

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The Philadelphia Phillies are bringing back the same core group of players for the 2026 season, despite three straight first-round playoff exits. Team president Dave Dombrowski and owner John Middleton believe this experienced roster can finally break through and win a World Series, even as they face questions about the team's age and health. The Phillies are hoping to defy history, as no team in the modern era has brought back this many regulars for this many seasons without winning a championship.

Why it matters

The Phillies' decision to "run it back" with their veteran core is a high-stakes gamble. They are banking on their proven talent to finally deliver a long-awaited World Series title, but their recent playoff failures have left many skeptical. This story explores whether the Phillies' approach can pay off, or if they are doomed to be remembered as a talented team that couldn't get over the hump.

The details

The Phillies are bringing back seven regulars who have each had at least 425 plate appearances in the last three seasons: Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, J.T. Realmuto, Alec Bohm, Brandon Marsh and Bryson Stott. They also re-signed Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million deal and brought back Realmuto on a three-year, $45 million contract. The team is hoping young prospects like Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford can provide a boost, but the core of the roster remains largely unchanged from the past three seasons.

  • The Phillies won 96 games in 2025 and 95 games in 2024, but lost in the first round of the playoffs both years.
  • In 2023, the Phillies lost in the NLCS to the Diamondbacks.

The players

Dave Dombrowski

The Phillies' president of baseball operations, who has built several championship teams over his career.

John Middleton

The Phillies' principal owner, who is hoping this veteran core can finally win a World Series.

Trea Turner

The Phillies' new leadoff hitter, who experienced his own playoff disappointments with the Nationals before winning a World Series.

Zack Wheeler

The Phillies' ace starting pitcher, who is expected to return from injury in May.

Aaron Nola

The Phillies' other top starting pitcher, who is coming off an injury-plagued 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.