Philadelphia Phillies owner John Middleton got a taste of the World Series last year and he wants to get back their and win it this time.
The Phillies came so close last season, falling just two victories short against the Houston Astros. The success has motivated Middleton even more to bring another World Series championship to the city of Philadelphia and its first since 2008.
“Nobody cares about whether I make money or not,” Middleton told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “If my legacy is that I didn’t lose any money owning a baseball team on an annual operating basis, that’s a pretty sad legacy. It’s about putting trophies in the cases.”
Middleton started building this team by signing Bryce Harper to a 13-year, $330 million deal. Without Harper, the Phillies wouldn’t have advanced as far as they did last season. He then brought in Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos.
This past offseason, shortstop Trea Turner was signed to an 11-year, $300 million contract and Taijuan Walker signed for four years and $72 million to bolster the pitching staff. The bullpen was beefed up with Craig Kimbrel, Matt Strahm and Gregory Soto (the latter via trade).
This will be a very exciting season for the Phillies. They have a talented roster and a owner who will do whatever it takes.
Photo courtsey of Shawnee News-Star
