While the Phillies quietly continue their groundwork for the Winter Meetings, general manager Matt Klentak will learn on Dec. 14, the powwow’s final day, if he still likes his recent 40-man roster decisions.
Parallel moves:
Many prospects of the Philadelphia Phillies received promotions in the second half of a level or two with the survivors earning roster protection for the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. Yet, hiding in plain sight was Klentak’s method to determine the competition for the remaining spots.
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If a writer does a thorough study for an article, there is sometimes the discovery of the unexpected. And it reveals itself near the end of the piece as it develops like a photograph in a darkroom.
When it came to the final 40-man spots, Klentak devised a test for at least seven players. This was the GM’s way of turning over every stone once or twice. However, two came up short.
Besides the elimination approach regarding borderline talent, Klentak also acquired slick fielders in an unrelated backup plan. Initially, he had Jesmuel Valentin with the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs as a future utility infielder. But adding two more equaled three roster slots.
At the end of August, the hometown nine received middle infielder Eliezer Alvarez from the St. Louis Cardinals for a veteran reliever. The defender hit .323 in Single-A and .247 in Double-A. Like Valentine, he’ll compete for a reserve spot.
Despite having two off-the-bench infielders, Klentak claimed Engelb Vielma off the waiver wire from the San Francisco Giants. The decision-maker accomplished this right before the roster-setting deadline. Vielman averaged .286 in Double-A and advanced to Triple-A before fizzling out.
MiLB stats:
- Valentin, 23: 29 AAA Gms., 104 PA, a .229 Avg., 1 HR and 7 RBI.
- Alvarez, 23: 54 AA Gms., 209 PA, a .247 Avg., 4 HR and 26 RBI.
- Vielma, 23: 87 AAA Gms., 314 PA, a .206 Avg., 0 HR and 17 RBI.
Regarding offseason possibilities, Klentak could trade his current double-play combo if he receives the right offer. And if he deals one or both, he’ll only do it for a hard-to-get pitcher or hitter. He’s ready for a big if.
As for expectations, the asking price will probably be a three-slot starter in his late 20s or younger or a decent hurler in the high minors with a mid-90’s fastball. However, other preferences are a southpaw starter or a left-handed bat with power. A package deal will have a better–if not great–chance.