Phillies: Closer’s next challenger

For another Phillies veteran, a young gun enters the picture with his third promotion since March and the determination to remain on the 25-man roster, but this flamethrower aims to make his mark here and now.

Motivational redemption:

The Philadelphia Phillies are among a handful of franchises in the mix for a one-game ticket to earn an NLDS berth. And one reason is the competition for a spot among the everyday eight, the rotation and the back end of the bullpen including the ninth inning.

"IN OTHER WORDS “Sometimes you need a little crisis to get your adrenaline flowing and help you realize your potential.” – Jeannette Walls"

Like relying on an outdated road map, many locals aren’t incorporating the organization’s changes into any conclusion. Today, front offices structure their active 25 to maximize every slot. Translation: versatility.

General manager Matt Klentak has only an odd-man-out scenario for roster spots: a sixth starter or a ninth reliever. By comparison, the closing picture is totally different. But, first, this article contrasts the playing situation of the other challengers: J.P. Crawford and Scott Kingery.

With half of the regular eight consistently penciled in, the hottest other player will be in a key part of the lineup, but it will depend on the team’s offensive needs in any given series. Currently, Aaron Altherr in the two hole and Maikel Franco batting fifth or sixth are in spots for knocks and RBIs respectively.

If one of the everyday four is struggling like the left fielder, he might sit briefly to relieve some pressure. Then, a motivated Nick Williams gets an opportunity to earn more at-bats. Somebody, for the most part, will be hot or cold.

In the past, a non-catching regular was in the lineup for 150 contests or more, but the workload took its toll and forced them to pace themselves to last through September. On the other hand, nine guys –many multi-positional– for seven spots, infield and outfield, are using roughly the same time-splitting concept as two receivers.

Therefore, Crawford, Kingery, Franco, Altherr and Williams will have chances to redeem themselves after cold spells. In other words, the playing time for outfielders and infielders isn’t a production-only decision.