EDITOR'S NOTE: I've closed the comments for this thread, and I appreciate everyone remaining civil while they were open. I didn't intend for this to be a political discussion, and just wanted to commemorate a (completely coincidental) observation I made regarding our last President and the fortunes of the Phillies. I can see now how it could have been taken otherwise. The fact is we're all here because we agree on something (the Phils) so let's keep the site on-topic. Thanks!
Today saw the end of the two-term Presidency of George W. Bush and, regardless of what you may have thought of Mr. Bush as a Chief Executive, the Philadelphia Phillies experienced one of the greatest runs of sustained success in their mostly moribund history.
During Bush's Presidency, the Phillies experienced seven winning season out of eight, averaging 86.5 wins per season -- and the lone losing season, 2002, saw the Phillies finish 80-81. The eight season run was capped with a NL East division title in 2007, and a World Championship in 2008. The only era in team history that arguably exceeds the present stretch is the 1976 to 1983 run that saw the team win five division titles, two pennants, and the team's first World Championship in 1980.
Two MVPs (Howard 2006; Rollins 2007), and one Rookie of the Year (Howard 2005). One no-hitter (Kevin Millwood 2003).
The team saw the arrival of free agent Jim Thome in 2003, almost single-handedly conferring credibility on the franchise. During the Bush Years, the Phillies drafted and developed Ryan Howard and Cole Hamels, with stars Chase Utley, Pat Burrell, and Jimmy Rollins emerging during the time.
So, let's hope that the Phillies don't need a Republican in the White House to succeed. Maybe the Obama Years will be even better.