Huge hopes for Phillies' big trade

The big picture: The Phillies have been on the cusp of a championship the last three seasons, but they've been unable to deliver that effin' trophy back to owner John Middleton.

• They're in the playoff mix again this year, right behind the National League East-leading Mets — the same team that ended their run last season.

Yes, but: Their bullpen has been a sore spot, tied at fourth for the most blown saves in the NL, per ESPN's Buster Olney.

• Suspended closer Jose Alvarado will be back pitching for the Phillies this month. But he's ineligible for the playoffs after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs.

Zoom in: Enter Durán, considered one of baseball's best closers with a wicked 100-mph fastball and nasty curveball.

• The team gave up a couple of its best prospects to land Durán.

• The Phils also traded for Minnesota Twins outfielder Harrison Bader before Thursday's trade deadline, per ESPN. They're back in action Friday at home against Detroit.

What they're saying: The Athletic credited the Phillies head of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski with a "signature deadline transaction" for nabbing Durán.

• "I really didn't think this one was possible a couple days ago," Dombrowski told the outlet.

The bottom line: Perhaps this time things will fall together for the Phillies.

• At the risk of sounding redundant, championship or bust. Fingers crossed, again.