PHILADELPHIA While it's still uncertain where the 2024 season will take the Phillies, theres one word that captures their performance through the first 50 games: historic.

In an 11-4 victory over the Rangers at Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday, the Phillies improved their record to 36-14, marking the best 50-game start in franchise history. Only 42 other teams have ever reached 36 wins in their first 50 games, with 26 of those teams being from the modern era. The last team to do so was the 2001 Mariners, who finished with 116 wins.

Manager Rob Thomson was cautious, referencing the Mariners' 116-win season, where they ultimately fell short in the ALCS: What did they do at the end? Youve got to keep going. You just have to keep grinding, keep pushing all the way through.

Of the 42 teams with a 36-14 record through 50 games, only 11 went on to win the World Series, with the 1998 Yankees being the most recent to do so after starting 37-13. Other notable teams to turn similar starts into titles include the 1953 Yankees, 1955 Dodgers, and 1984 Tigers. The Phillies are hoping to join that elite company https://www.philliesplayerfanstore.com/kyle_schwarber_jersey-206, but manager Thomson knows the journey is far from over.

Weve got a long way to go, said Bryce Harper, who hit his 12th home run of the season in the eighth inning. You play a full season for a reason, so we just need to stay the course, stay confident, and keep doing our thing.

Historic Start and Impressive Streaks

The Phillies have become the hottest team in baseball, winning five consecutive games, eight of their last nine, and 21 of their last 25. Since April 15, theyve gone 28-6an accomplishment they havent matched since 1895. For context, the 1895 Phillies were led by the legendary "Big Sam" Thompson and "Brewery Jack" Taylor, both of whom set remarkable records for the time.

While modern baseball doesnt see such extraordinary individual stats, the current Phillies lineup has been producing strong results across the board. The team has scored at least four runs in each of their last 12 games, a feat they havent accomplished in 20 years. The team record stands at 17 consecutive games with four or more runs, a mark set back in 1934.

"They're very confident, " said Thomson of his players. "Right now, it doesnt matter what kind of game were in. We feel like someones going to step up and get it done. Thats a good feeling to have."

Key Contributions in Wednesdays Win

J.T. Realmuto and Edmundo Sosa led the charge in Wednesdays win, each hitting a home run and driving in three runs. Sosas fourth-inning home run helped break open a close game. Realmutos solo shot in the third inning extended his hitting streak to 12 games, tying his career high.

The value is in each player doing their job and contributing to the teams success, Harper said. Its about doing our job every day and moving on to the next one.

Taijuan Walker started for the Phillies but struggled early https://www.philliesplayerfanstore.com/tim_mccarver_jersey-32, giving up two runs in the first few innings. He lasted 4 2/3 innings, allowing six hits and walking four batters. However, the bullpen stepped up, with four relievers combining to allow just one run over the remaining 4 1/3 innings, securing the win.

Staying Focused on the Bigger Picture

While the Phillies are enjoying their strong start, the team knows theres much more work to be done. Its cool, but we know what we want to accomplish, said Matt Strahm, who picked up the win with 1 1/3 innings of relief. Other Phillies teams have won the World Series, and thats the most impressive thing. Thats what we want to do.

With 112 games left before the postseason, the Phillies are determined to keep their focus and continue their impressive run.









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