Philadelphia Phillies: Pat Neshek’s Role as a Stopgap

In their environment, the relievers do more than just watch during the game. They prepare themselves mentally for the ringing phone with the scoreboard-dictated decision. For instance, if the starter is tiring in the sixth inning with a one-run lead, the setup hurlers for the seventh frame know whether a right-hander or a southpaw should warm up. And while Ramos, Gomez and Mariot are the righties, Rodriguez is the only lefty. However, their effectiveness will determine the pecking order.

"IN OTHER WORDS:  “In my opinion, the best setup guys now have a tougher job than the closers. They pitch more innings, inherit more runners.” – Goose Gossage"

In the closer’s role, Neris has a heater and a splitter to baffle the hitters, and he no longer exhibits tightrope-like stress during every outing. But he rarely got the ball for a save due to virtually no opportunities in the final days. In other words, the starter and/or the setup men failed to deliver a one-run advantage – or even a tie – before the final frame. So, when the offseason began, the Philadelphia Phillies had Neris and four candidates for the seventh inning,

Before the Winter Meetings begin in early December, general manager Matt Klentak already has his desired bullpen piece. Neshek is here to get three outs in the eighth, save a game for a resting Neris, take the pressure off developing relievers, and be the backup if Neris has difficulties. What should fans expect from Neris and Neshek? Protected leads.