Call to the pen
Fansided

Philadelphia Phillies Closer Job Up for Grabs

By Tim Boyle

Sep 20, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Jeanmar Gomez (46) gathers himself after being hit by a line drive during the ninth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Citizens Bank Park. The Philadelphia Phillies won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Jeanmar Gomez (46) gathers himself after being hit by a line drive during the ninth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Citizens Bank Park. The Philadelphia Phillies won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Jeanmar Gomez

The man who saved the most games for the Phillies last season was Jeanmar Gomez. His early season success was quite astounding to witness. Even through August his numbers looked pretty good as he entered the final month of the regular season with a 2.97 ERA and 34 saves. The wheels came off in September, and Gomez saw his ERA jump up to 4.85 before the season ended.

Gomez’s accomplishments were even better considering how bad his team was. He didn’t have the luxury of pitching on a team that provided him with lots of opportunities. This meant that when Gomez did have save chances, he had to capitalize. Early on, he did.

Prior to 2016, Gomez had only ever accrued a single save in his career. It looked like the Phillies had stumbled onto something great. However, the poor finish may have scared them off. Nevertheless, Gomez should compete for the closer’s job. His success there could benefit the Phillies far more as his trade value would increase exponentially.

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