6 Keys for the Philadelphia Phillies to Be a Contender Next Season

81-81.

The definition of average.

The 2012 Phillies underachieved. Bad defense, poor situational hitting, injury, bad luck and poor relief pitching all contributed to the team’s demise.

Can they bounce back in 2013? Can they contend with young teams like the Washington Nationals and the Atlanta Braves in their own division?

They can, but there are six key areas where things must go right for the Phillies in order for the team to make this season just a blip on the radar and return to the playoffs once again.

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