The Philadelphia Phillies enter the 2025 playoffs as betting favorites to capture their first World Series title since 2008. With a 95-win season and home-field advantage secured through the National League Division Series, the Phillies have positioned themselves as the team to beat in the National League. However, championship success will ultimately depend on the performance of a select few players who can either elevate the team to glory or watch their title hopes slip away. Here are the three players who will make or break Philadelphia's World Series chances.

Kyle Schwarber: The Record-Setting Power Bat

Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Kyle Schwarber (12) watches his home run during the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park.
Eric Hartline-Imagn Images.

Kyle Schwarber has emerged as one of baseball's most feared power hitters, and his historic 2025 season has him positioned as a crucial component of the Phillies' championship aspirations. With 56 home runs and 132 RBIs while leading the National League in long balls, Schwarber has not only established himself as an elite slugger but has also made MLB history in the process.

The veteran designated hitter broke a Major League record by hitting 23 home runs against left-handed pitching this season, surpassing the previous mark held by Matt Olson and Hall of Famer Stan Musial. This achievement demonstrates Schwarber's ability to dominate all types of pitching, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams throughout the playoffs. His career .832 OPS as a Phillie and 131 home runs in just three seasons underscore his consistent ability to change games with one swing.

Schwarber's postseason experience cannot be understated, as he carries 20 career playoff home runs in just 259 plate appearances. This translates to tremendous pressure on opposing pitchers who must constantly work around one of the game's most dangerous power threats. His ability to provide the Phillies with quick 1-0 leads or comeback momentum will be essential in the high-leverage situations that define October baseball.

The timing of Schwarber's historic season couldn't be better for Philadelphia's championship aspirations. As one of the team's pending free agents, this represents a final opportunity for the slugger to help deliver the World Series title that has eluded this core group. His proven track record of rising to the occasion in big moments makes him the type of difference-maker who can single-handedly shift series momentum.

Trea Turner: The Dynamic Piece Returning from Injury

Trea Turner's potential return from his hamstring injury represents the most critical variable in determining the Phillies' championship fate. Before suffering the strain on September 7, Turner was having arguably the finest season of his career, leading the National League in hits while maintaining a .305 batting average that puts him in contention for the franchise's first batting title since 1958.

Turner's impact extends far beyond his offensive contributions. His defensive improvements have been dramatic, moving from -2 Defensive Runs Saved in 2024 to +11 in 2025, showcasing the type of two-way excellence that championship teams require. This combination of elite hitting and improved defense makes Turner one of the most valuable players in the National League when healthy.

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The timing of Turner's potential return could not be more crucial for Philadelphia's postseason success. Reports suggest he may be activated as early as this weekend's series against Minnesota, providing him with valuable at-bats before the playoffs begin. Manager Rob Thomson's optimism about Turner's recovery timeline gives the Phillies hope that their catalyst will be available for the Division Series.

Turner's $300 million contract was specifically designed to provide immediate impact during the franchise's championship window. His proven ability to perform in high-pressure situations, combined with his speed and contact skills, makes him the type of player who can manufacture runs and change games through situational hitting. The difference between a healthy Turner and his absence could determine whether the Phillies fulfill their championship aspirations or fall short once again.

Jhoen Duran: The High-Stakes Closer

The Phillies' mid-season acquisition of Jhoen Duran from Minnesota represents their most significant bullpen upgrade in years, addressing a chronic weakness that has plagued their previous playoff runs. Duran brings elite credentials with a 2.09 ERA in 2025 and a career 2.47 ERA across 223 major league appearances. His devastating combination of a 100+ mph fastball and devastating splitter makes him one of baseball's most unhittable closers when commanding his arsenal effectively.

Duran's immediate impact in Philadelphia has been extraordinary, setting the Citizens Bank Park velocity record with a 103.3 mph fastball while recording saves in his first two appearances. His five pitches at 102.4 mph or faster in one inning demonstrated the type of overpowering stuff that can neutralize even the best playoff lineups. The dramatic entrance complete with flames and spider imagery has already energized the fanbase and established him as a legitimate October weapon.

The pressure of closing games for a World Series contender differs significantly from Duran's previous experience with rebuilding Minnesota teams. Despite his regular season success, Duran has limited high-leverage playoff experience, and the Phillies have managed just four saves while blowing six save opportunities over their last 17 postseason games. If Duran struggles with command or allows his emotions to affect his performance in crucial October moments, the Phillies' championship hopes could evaporate in the ninth inning of close games.

The Phillies enter October with legitimate World Series aspirations, but their ultimate success hinges on these three players performing at their peak when the stakes are highest. Schwarber must continue his October heroics, Turner needs to return to full health and effectiveness, and Duran must prove he can handle the pressure of closing games on baseball's biggest stage. If all three deliver, Philadelphia has the talent to capture their long-awaited championship. If any falter, their season could end in familiar disappointment.