It happens every season pundits and fans a like will over react to what they see in April both positively and negatively depending on what ball park you are sitting in. I like to state every season that rarely things in September are as they were in April.
Without stating to much of the obvious (Injuries, Warmer Weather acclimation and so on) a 162 games season will have periods of inequity.
Having said that one cannot completely ignore warning signs in things unlikely to get better with time. For instance Papelbon only hitting 91 on the radar gun is not a good sign. From most outsiders meaning not including Sandberg and the players themselves expectations for this club realistically speaking are low. Most have probably drawn the conclusion that the Nationals will win the division and the Braves will be right there.
Amaro himself on one hand would be pleasantly surprised if these veterans rose above the nay sayers and made a run at something. On the other hand I'm sure he is thinking towards the minors and this years 7th pick overall. He is or probably already has had discussions about the trade value in players like Lee, Ruiz, Byrd and possibly Utley.
In the end Track Record generally rules the season. Barring catastrophic injuries to key players throughout the league. As for the Phillies and their potential to grab a WC well that depends on how quickly they can get their defense sured up as well as make a decision on Papelbon.
Their margin for error is very thin but I still maintain with Lee Hamels and Burnett going out there every 5th day at least through July it can be done.
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