Based on spring performances, the rotation should include Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, Zach Eflin, Matt Moore (pictured above in an AP photo), and Chase Anderson. Between them, they've thrown 35.1 innings, allowing just 26 hits. They've walked 11 and struck out 33 with a collective ERA of 2.80.
Their excellence leaves two guy—Spencer Howard and Vince Velasquez—without spots. Howard missed his last start with back issues and Velasquez remains inconsistent. Barring injuries or other weirdness, I look for Howard to start the year either on the injured list or in minor league camp. Velasquez will either be traded or moved to the bullpen. I think a trade is more likely.
The Phils figure to carry eight guys in the bullpen. Hector Neris, Archie Bradley, Jose Alvarado, Brandon Kintzler, Connor Brogdon, David Hale and Tony Watson, seem like locks to make the team. That leaves one spot left for guys like Sam Coonrod, Ramon Rosso, Enyel De Los Santos, and maybe Velasquez. Maybe the new regime gives VV another shot in Philadelphia. I think a change of scenery for him would do everyone the most good.
My favorite pitcher this spring has been Alvarado. He's allowed just two baserunners in four innings and might be one of the hardest throwing lefties I've seen in a while. He's consistently throwing 100 mph and keeping hitters bewildered with a devastating curve.
Pitching is going to be huge in the first days of the season. The Phils play their first 13 games against the Mets and Braves, two teams most "experts" expect to battle for the division title. If the pitching is as good against them as it's been this spring, the Phils will be added to that title conversation.
No comments:
Post a Comment