What would an NLDS exit mean for the Phillies? Some questions in need of consideration

Heading into the All-Star break at 28 games over .500, the Phillies seemed primed for a deep postseason run. But a mediocre 33-33 finish, paired with a modest plus-four run differential, was a sharp departure from their first-half dominance. 

Now, the team faces a must-win scenario trailing the Mets 2-1 in the National League Division Series, needing two victories to salvage their early-season promise and keep their World Series aspirations alive.

A loss could trigger difficult questions about the franchise’s direction. 

Manager Rob Thomson is signed through 2025, but would an early postseason exit prompt the organization to re-evaluate his future? Does it make sense to have him start the season as a lame duck, knowing the scrutiny that will follow every misstep? Or do they offer an extension to a manager who has exited each of the previous three postseasons a round earlier than the year past?

Then there's the future of Alec Bohm, Brandon Marsh, and Bryson Stott. It's fair to say all three have shown signs of regression this year. For a club with superstars in their prime and a narrowing window of opportunity, are there alternatives on the free agent market or via trade that could better position the team to compete in 2025 and beyond?

The second half collapse also has to be reviewed internally. What precipitated the decline? Was the roster flawed from the outset and simply overachieved, or was leadership in the clubhouse content with cruising and now the club can't switch into another gear? 

It’s also impossible to ignore the competition. The Braves, assuming they stay healthy, will again be formidable next year. And the Mets are poised to be a force, with owner Steve Cohen likely to throw his wallet around this winter and pursue several marquee names on the market.

Sure, tonight's game is crucial, but it feels like bigger decisions could be on the horizon if things don’t break Philadelphia’s way.