Extra Innings: A Phillies Podcast

Matt Breen and Scott Lauber talk about the evolution of defensive shifts, and how Bryce Harper will try to combat what he sees this season. Plus, they discuss Harper's defense, and his claim that playing in center field last year made him struggle. Lastly, Breen and Lauber answer your questions about the starting rotation, talk adding Dallas Keuchel and wonder how many wins it will take for the Phillies to make the playoffs.

Bryce Harper's Phillies jersey is a bestseller, and ticket sales are through the roof. The line on wins is 88.5, and expectations are higher than ever. Bob, Scott and Matt give their predictions and discuss what Harper's addition will mean for the rest of the outfield. Plus, who will be on the bench come opening day and the change Jake Arrieta made that he thinks will help him have better season than 2018.

You can't call the Phillies cheap anymore. Bryce Harper agreed to a 13-year, $330 million deal that shows the Phillies are ready to contend for a World Series on a yearly basis. We explore what that means -- plus talk about if there are any more moves to be made and reflect on how far the Phillies have come -- in the latest episode. Also ... what about Mike Trout?

What does Bryce Harper want? It's hard to answer that, but it might determine if he chooses to sign with Philadelphia or takes a short-term deal with a team like the Dodgers. Matt Breen, Bob Brookover and Scott Lauber discuss worst-case scenarios, Harper fatigue and how free agency affects other players, and also offer up gut predictions on if the outfielder will pick the Phillies.

The ball is in the Phillies court. What will they do with it? With Manny Machado headed to the Padres, the writers discuss how it's Bryce Harper or bust and make predictions on if they think the superstar will choose to play in Philadelphia.

From Clearwater, Fla., Matt Breen, Bob Brookover and Scott Lauber discuss what's on every Phillies fan's mind -- Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. Plus, what Jean Segura brings to the lineup and how Gabe Kapler will use him. And what does the revelation of Jake Arrieta's injury mean for the starter early on in the season?

It's an exciting time to be following the Phillies, and the Philadelphia Inquirer will be there from first pitch to game 162 (and maybe beyond). Join us for the ride.