That's not necessarily true. The Brewers were legit world series contenders in 18 and didn't even have a bonafide #2. Braves, I think, had as good a chance as anyone and Soroka was on a level with Giolito on a WAR basis.
People put too much stock in what it takes to win in the playoffs, because at the end of the day what it takes is being present and a bunch of dumb luck.