Philadelphia Phillies: Trading for Competition

Reminding his coworker of other deals, his friend Joe pointed out that Zach Eflin came here in a three-way trade from the San Diego Padres for Jimmy Rollins, who landed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. And Joe noted that Jake Thompson and Alec Asher joined the Phillies from the Rangers as well. But although Asher will probably be the odd man out of these three, both he and Thompson need improvement to stick in the big leagues. With what, Joe? Consistency.

"FOOD FOR THOUGHT:     “He’s turned his life around. He used to be depressed and miserable. Now he’s miserable and depressed.” – Harry Kalas"

But while Eickhoff, Velasquez, Eflin, Thompson and Asher were part of the acquisition process, they aren’t the only ones. Additionally, the competition for a rotation spot includes right-handers Ben Lively, Nick Pivetta and Mark Appel: Those three also came from other franchises. Lively was the cost to the Cincinnati Reds for Marlon Byrd, Pivetta was key for the Washington Nationals to secure Jonathan Papelbon‘s freedom from the locals, and Appel was another piece from Houston. Did you notice that the only youngster here who originally signed with the Phils was Nola? Lastly, one remaining question: Pitching-wise, what was the beginning of the end? The no-hitter!