The pennant race begins right now.
For the first time since 2011, the Phillies will emerge from the all-star break with a legitimate chance to reach the postseason. How legitimate? Consider this: With a 53-42 record through 95 games, they can go only 34-33 the rest of the way and still finish with 87 wins, the same total as three of the last four National League wild-card teams.
The Phillies are in first place in the NL East, a half-game ahead of the Atlanta Braves and 5 1/2 in front of the heavily favored Washington Nationals. But can they stay there?