The 2018 Phillies are now buyers after their 10-9 record against other wild-card hopefuls, and general manager Matt Klentak can add a critical piece to the active roster after laying the groundwork through June for a deal.

Passed the test:

When the Philadelphia Phillies began the 42-game stretch against wild-card and divisional contenders, Klentak stated he would be active if the team is relevant. Well, they are only three games behind the division leader and have possession of the second wild card through June 29.

IN OTHER WORDS: “Sooner or later you must move down an unknown road that leads beyond the range of the imagination, and the only certainty is that the trip has to be made.” – Bruce Catton

With rebuilding at an end, the offense is of concern in right field, shortstop, third base and catching, which has additional emphasis on defense. However, Maikel Franco is averaging .258 with power and run production, but a replacement must be a significant upgrade or a left-side bat to platoon.

When Franco hits, fans believe he’s just playing head games with them before his never-ending cold spells. Pick up a third sacker! No, he gets hot and goes cold. Like other regulars, the reality is every hitter is streaky, but the enshrined stars at Cooperstown were the most consistent ones everybody’d prefer.

The most likely area for improvement is the relief corps, but Pat Neshek will add a beneficial wrinkle due to his funky delivery. As for restructuring, the red pinstripes placed a priority on flamethrowers. Ergo, Seranthony Dominguez and Edubray Ramos are the best so far.

While fans have concerns, some factors are positive: reactivated hurlers and opponents without playoff aspirations. So, Phils relievers will be a reenergized group with renewed confidence because of less stressful innings. For, however, outside closer options, there is a link on the last page to “Phillies: July’s trade targets.”

Although most locals don’t complain about Scott Kingery, they’re sure Franco needs replacing, and others think the good guys should add a third starter. The young rotation is ahead of schedule, but some are uncomfortable with Vince Velasquez. Past is prologue?

Recently, a host and a color commentator on a postgame show had different takes on Zach Eflin. The television personality believed Eflin is pitching well for a five-slot hurler, while the former pitcher twice hinted Aaron Nola and Eflin are solid. Unfortunately, looking at total numbers alone ignores the variables.