Window of Opportunity to the Phillies

As the second piece of the Hamels’ deal to see major league action, Jake Thompson began his third consecutive level with four straight debacles. He entered Double-A, Triple-A and the majors with four regrettable starts before dominating in the high minors. However, he was inconsistent in his last six MLB outings because he didn’t attack the strike zone. He issued too many free passes by being too cautious against major leaguers. Now, he’ll challenge the opposition for Lehigh Valley to get another bite of the reddest apple.

"IN OTHER WORDS:     “Just take the ball and throw it where you want to. Throw strikes. Home plate don’t move.” – Satchel Paige"

While the PA announcements were blaring behind them, two fans talked about Ben Lively’s last appearance before joining the minor league camp. He got lit up! Yeah, he figured he’d start the next inning after two quick outs, but then Nola loaded the bases: Lively just wasn’t ready for a jam. What player did we give up for Lively? Marlon Byrd.

After Thompson and Eflin advanced to the IronPigs, Lively began 2016 with the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils. Wasn’t he in Double-A for the second half of 2014? Yeah, he received a promotion from the Cincinnati Reds. Hot dogs! Cold beer! Warm afternoon. Whether it was motivation and/or familiarity with the Eastern League batters, he dominated there and Lehigh Valley after his advancement. And he overcame the adjustments he faced at Triple-A to dominate the league again in his last eight performances.

After Mark Appel struggled at Double-A and Triple-A, the Philadelphia Phillies acquired the righty in the Giles’ deal. The former top selection in the MLB Draft was an intriguing part of that swap. But he only had a solid April before injuries ended his early success and year.