The Philadelphia Phillies haven't made the playoffs since 2011, but Larry Bowa believes that will change in 2022. In fact, the former manager and now special advisor for the organization thinks this current group, after signing Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber, could potentially make a World Series run.

Via Tim Kelly of Audacy Sports:

…I think [president of baseball operations] Dave [Dombrowski] has done a tremendous job in putting this roster together,” Bowa told Jon Marks and Ike Reese on SportsRadio 94 WIP Monday. “I'm gonna be shocked if this Phillies team doesn't make [the playoffs]. I'm not gonna be satisfied just getting to the playoffs. I think this team can go much deeper than that, barring injuries. It wouldn't shock me if we went to the World Series at all, it really wouldn't. If we can stay healthy out here and this offense continues to thump like I think they will … they're not going to hit every game, but for the most part they're going to be consistent and we're going to put up runs.”

Adding Castellanos and Schwarber to the fold for the Phillies is huge, especially considering their lineup already. Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, Jean Segura, and Rhys Hoskins can all swing it. These two offseason signings bring more power and consistency to the Philly offense.

Obviously, it's bold to say the Phillies can get to a World Series after more than a decade of disappointment. The bats will likely show up and produce, but the pitching is a bit of a question mark due to health, especially with Aaron Nola. Also, Zack Wheeler is still recovering from a shoulder injury, but he finally threw to live hitters this week in spring training. The Phillies will need their 1-2 punch at the top end of the rotation in Nola and Wheeler to be solid, along with the offense firing on all cylinders.

The talent is certainly there and with the playoffs expanding, there are really no excuses but to contend.