The switch flipped for Max Kepler just past halfway through the Philadelphia Phillies' season.

His comments about playing time weren't the wake-up call, nor were the questions surrounding his future as the Phillies were beginning to improve their roster. The trade deadline passed, and Kepler remained.

All anyone outside the Phillies organization could ask was why? The conviction was there for Kepler, giving him enough confidence to flip that switch.

"There was a little bit of a sigh of relief after that," Kepler admitted once he knew he likely was remaining with the Phillies. "The days seemed easier than it did in the first half."

The culmination of the Phillies' belief in Kepler was on display in Wednesday night's 11-3 victory over the Mets . Kepler finished 3 for 4 with a home ru

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