PHILADELPHIA -- If the Phillies had not collapsed with a 17-34 finish, they could have been hosting the Dodgers on Thursday night in Game 1 of the 2018 National League Division Series at Citizens Bank Park.
Instead, they are preparing for a highly anticipated offseason. Here is a look at a few frequently asked questions:
Why are the Phillies downplaying the upcoming free-agent market?
The most obvious answer is that the Phillies don't want to tout the class, only to lose the Bryce Harper or Manny Machado sweepstakes. It is expected that Philadelphia will pursue both, but will only be able to sign one.