When the Phillies signed Bryce Harper to the richest deal in MLB history two years ago, Team "Stupid Money" made clear their rebuilding phase was over. Baseball’s Chosen One and his new teammates graced the cover of SI's 2019 MLB preview. Harper got so into the Philly culture that it was surprising when he didn’t shout “Yo, Adrian!” at his introductory press conference. It seemed the team, and the city, were set up for success.
Fast forward two seasons and the Harper-led Phillies still haven't reached October and now wield the second longest playoff drought in baseball (behind the dysfunctional Mariners).