Yep, it's all about the foundation.
If you plan on keeping the car, save a little longer and get a block that will last you a lifetime.
I ruined a stock block running the stock motor (gears and exhaust, 232hp at the wheels, running 12.9's) launching hard on slicks... they are weak, flex, and over time warp and/or crack. Note about that, ran stock axles and sock T5 back then and never had an issue... and we all know how prone the stock axles/T5's are on slicks.... and for me the block getting beat on was the think that failed (admittedly, it took years of abuse... several 100 runs).
Many get away with a stock block for a long time, many never have an issue... others are not so lucky... roll the dice.
Spend the money once is my advice.