Philadelphia Phillies: After 11 long years, the Phillies have made the playoffs

It’s been four thousand and fourteen days since the city of Philadelphia has seen its team in the postseason. Since then, the Philadelphia Phillies have limped through the past decade-plus, first delaying a much-needed rebuild, then further slowing that rebuild with poor front office choices.

This season, expectations were high yet again, thanks to the additions of sluggers Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos. Nothing came easy, however, as the team labored through injury after injury, a switch at manager, and yet another September slump.

Tonight, however, after 11 long years, things have changed for the Philadelphia Phillies after a win against the Houston Astros.

The Philadelphia Phillies have made the postseason for the first time in 11 years.

Philadelphia faced many challenges this season; however, when push came to shove — and with a bit of help from the Milwaukee Brewers — the Phillies ended their streak of seasons without a playoff berth.

Just three days ago, the Seattle Mariners clinched a spot in the AL playoffs — their first in 20 years. For that half week, the Phillies owned Major League Baseball’s streak for consecutive years without a postseason bid. A streak that the franchise and their fans are surely glad has passed on to the Los Angeles Angels and Detroit Tigers (both at seven years).

Their first-round opponent is not yet set, though the odds on favorite would be the St. Louis Cardinals. While certainly not a team many are looking to face, the Phillies have bested the birds in four of their seven meetings this season.

There also remains a chance that the Phillies could face the division rival New York Mets if Philadelphia can catch the San Diego Padres for the second Wild Card seed. Really a pick-your-poison type of postseason for the Phils.

While the journey ahead is certain to be difficult, one cannot advance if they do not make the dance.

For now, the Philadelphia Phillies have earned the right to celebrate as they have secured their spot in the postseason. Soon, however, their focus must turn to make the most of this Red October.