The Phillies gambled that their offense could carry them into the postseason. Now they’re in the World Series.
How they did it
The Phillies already had some hitters, including the prodigious Bryce Harper. And they had pitching, led by Zack Wheeler. What they didn’t have was defense.
So, what did they do? They signed two of the best hitters in the game with terrible defense. On purpose.
What this means
In baseball, we measure a team’s success by more than wins and losses. Because we want to know how and why a team succeeds. Few teams have even attempted what the Phillies did.
To outhit everybody, outpitch half the league, and hope their defense isn’t the literal worst.
For a minute, the experiment looked like a failure. They knew their defense was bad. In fact, nobody would let them forget it.
Then they changed their focus. Away from how bad the defense is (and therefore, how much they must improve) and toward being a better version of themselves.
And their defense? It’s now above average.
Beyond baseball
Most of us are encouraged to do what we’re good at. Few of us, however, are allowed to only do what we’re good at. We’re taught to be well-rounded. Shore up those weaknesses. Strive to be better.
Playing to strengths is not a new concept. But the traditional temptation is to focus on the weaknesses. Rather than a recipe for success, negative tunnel vision can prevent it.
Take Aways
- The Phillies got better when they stopped trying to be the best.
- They didn’t work twice as hard on their defense.
- Nor did they ignore the defense and hope for the best.
- Getting better required freeing them to be mediocre.
In other words, they got good by not trying to be good.
Now this flawed team seems poised to win it all. And actually be the best.