When the 2016 regular season opened, the Phillies anticipated a starting rotation of veterans Jeremy Hellickson and Charlie Morton pitching in front of youngsters Aaron Nola and Jerad Eickhoff.The role of fifth starter in that rotation was a wide open spring training battle, with the favorites being a pair of left-handers with big league experience in newcomerBrett Oberholtzer and organizational arm Adam Morgan.But another … Continue reading Philadelphia Phillies 2016 grades: Rotation
Brett Oberholtzer Favored in Phillies 5th Starter Battle
The Philadelphia Phillies will have an interesting, competitive battle in spring training for the 5th starter role in the pitching rotation.As pitchers and catchers begin their first workouts this morning, the working assumption among all of the experts and insiders that follow the team closely is that the first four spots in the 2016 starting … Continue reading Brett Oberholtzer Favored in Phillies 5th Starter Battle
Phillies 2016 Closer options
With the trade of Ken Giles to Houston, the Philadelphia Phillies have a few options for the 2016 closer role.Giles was always considered the heir apparent to Jonathan Papelbon, took over that role when the veteran was dealt to the Washington Nationals at the trade deadline this past season, and succeeded as most evaluators believed he would.In fact, … Continue reading Phillies 2016 Closer options
Phillies 2015 report card: Starting pitchers
To fashion the worst Philadelphia Phillies season since 1972, a deficiency in talent and results from the 2015 starting pitching rotation was a key element. However, mixed in with those deficiencies were a few notable bright spots.Fifteen different pitchers took the mound at the start of a game for the Phillies this past season. Thirteen of those made … Continue reading Phillies 2015 report card: Starting pitchers
Cole Hamels traded to Texas
It was revealed through numerous sources last night that the Phillies and Texas Rangers have agreed to a trade sending lefty ace Cole Hamels and lefty reliever Jake Diekman from Philly to Texas.In exchange, the Phils will receive lefty Matt Harrison and a quintet of prospects: catcher Jorge Alfaro, outfielder Nick Williams, and pitchers Jake Thompson, Alec Asher, and Jerad Eickhoff.It marks the 2nd straight day … Continue reading Cole Hamels traded to Texas
MATT VEASEY 