Depending on perspective and perception, many fans form their beliefs based on different factors regarding the nucleus of the next contending team for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Revisiting a Third Dawn:

When mental components vary due to the possibilities between positive and negative extremes, conclusions do not match.

Deciding on a core player requires limiting the variables. For instance, the foundational requirements are the results, the timeframe, the evolution and any developments changing the equation.

While cornerstones differ from one squad to another, the one constant is the main cogs experience the losing campaigns. They learn how to win together. And although most are from the farm system, one occasionally is an acquisition from another organization. Additionally, the second tier of contributors are part of the overall core group, not one of the four.

Despite mountains of data, some regulars and hurlers have the stats but are thought of like a supporting cast. For example, Cesar Hernandez is a decent leadoff man but not part of the nucleus. But while some have numbers, the club rallies around others with more modest statistics like Larry Bowa. Or a star could have both like Jimmy Rollins.

IN OTHER WORDS: “You are recognized by your bat. If you are the best hitting shortstop out there, that’s how you win a Gold Glove. That’s the way it is. It shouldn’t be-it’s a defensive award.” – Jimmy “J-Roll” Rollins

After the frequent losing ends, players arriving near that point and beyond aren’t part of the foundation. And the only exception is a direct correlation to a new direction: Rhys Hoskins. That stated, if you make the assumption the team will be an also-ran for the next three years, you can include some Phils’ selections in the 2018 MLB Draft in your projection. However, the opposite is a winning summer in ’18, which might only need some pitchers to become a reality. And general manager Matt Klentak has added starters and relievers during the last two winters.

In the last category, evolution usually occurs over three seasons with a rare exception like Hoskins. In other words, most rookies this 162 are just getting their first taste of major league competition and haven’t proven they can succeed at this plateau. So, when opponents are exploiting their holes, these future stars must adjust to remain at this level. And the experience of even three campaigns makes a huge difference regarding the franchise’s percentage of victories.