Jon Johnson

Sep 24, 2024 | audacy.com | Jon Johnson

"I want my f***ing trophy!" That was Phillies Managing Partner John Middleton while celebrating with team in the locker room following their NL East clinching win on Monday night. When 2023 came to a disappointing end in the NLCS, the desire, the expectation, the demand of the 2024 Phillies was World Series or bust from day one in Clearwater. As a result, it can be difficult to shorten the focus and enjoy the now. But do not halt joy by looking too far ahead.

Sep 11, 2024 | audacy.com | Jon Johnson

Less than 24 hours ago many were up and arms after Bryce Harper admired a long single he thought would leave the yard, rather than legging out a near sure double. Unacceptable? Absolutely. But the demands to bench him, or attributing Harper's action pure selfishness, became a tad excessive. Fast forward to Tuesday night's win over Tampa Bay. The Phillies are up 9-4 in the eighth inning and Harper is on second after recording his third double of the game.

Aug 19, 2024 | audacy.com | Jon Johnson

Is Rob Thomson a difference maker? Depending on who you ask, Major League managers can be the difference makers in five to ten games per season, the rest is on the players. With Rob Thomson I beg to disagree. His biggest strength is also his biggest weakness. Although very analytical, his commitment to appeasing certain veterans, or in Sunday's case, commitment to giving them a full day off even if it costs the team a game is downright ridiculous.

Aug 12, 2024 | audacy.com | Jon Johnson

Is water finding its level? While many would like to view the Phillies from the bigger picture of a team with a comfortable lead in their division who is just going through a lengthy slump, anyone actually watching or listening to each game is asking one question: are the 2024 Phillies the same as the 2023 Phillies? The record setting first half may have been fun, but was it a team playing above their head?

Jul 29, 2024 | audacy.com | Jon Johnson

The clock is ticking until Tuesday's 6pm EST MLB trade deadline and given how the franchise is positioned, now is the moment for the Phillies to pile on acquisitions. Known as an extremely smart and-when the moment presents itself- aggressive front office executive led by president Dave Dombrowski, who has already filled positions of need adding a new everyday left fielder in Austin Hays and a likely closer in Carlos Estevez. But more needs to be done. A bench piece?