Phillies’ Unique Backup Plan

While Phillies fans have questions regarding two players on the active 25, general manager Matt Klentak’s transactions indicate his roster strategy.

Following Klentak’s breadcrumbs:

The GM of the Philadelphia Phillies has revealed his thinking by his lack of moves, as opposed to signing reserves to come off the bench. However, today’s younger execs are being creative and not blindly following the traditional approach to carrying 25 players.

"IN OTHER WORDS: “People should think things out fresh and not just accept conventional terms and the conventional way of doing things.” – R. Buckminster Fuller"

After last season ended, Klentak stated in a television interview the regulars wouldn’t be starting in almost every game. And he remarked about doing things differently. Meanwhile, having versatility with infielders is the current process on the top two organizational levels.

According to MLB.com in a question and answer interview with manager Gabe Kapler, he liked the idea of having four infielders for three spots: second, third and short. He also mentioned Chicago Cubs skipper Joe Maddon’s method of keeping his stars fresh by giving his reserves opportunities to succeed.

When you combine both their views, you reach the conclusion of playing time-based on maximizing a strength: Rhys Hoskins for his power and Cesar Hernandez for leading off. But others will earn additional starts with their performance, while some will sit due to a lack thereof.

Based on Phillies’ transactions, a fan can see the entire offseason revealing the decision-makers’ thinking roster-wise. In Klentak’s case, however, the missing moves are also telling. Who’s on the bench?

Granted, pinch hitters and defensive replacements aren’t sexy, but a home run in the ninth inning to tie, take the lead, or win the game is. Yet when a batter comes off the pine to bat for a reliever, who will have you on the edge of your seat? Tommy Joseph or an infielder initially signed to a minor league deal?

That’s right! While you were praying for an ace, Cameron Rupp, Andrew Knapp, and Joseph did not change their employment address. And Klentak only acquired infielders and outfielders to compete for a reserve spot with Pedro Florimon.

Financially, Rupp is earning $2.05 million, while the others are at or slightly above the MLB minimum. And even though three catchers and another first baseman appear unnecessary, Kapler will find enough at-bats for Joseph, Rupp, and Knapp.