Call to the pen
Fansided

Phillies: Rotation’s 5-slot battle

By Tal Venada

CLEARWATER, FL - FEBRUARY 27: Jerad Eickoff #48 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches during the second inning of the Spring Training game against the Detroit Tigers at Spectrum Field on February 27, 2018 in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images)
CLEARWATER, FL - FEBRUARY 27: Jerad Eickoff #48 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches during the second inning of the Spring Training game against the Detroit Tigers at Spectrum Field on February 27, 2018 in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images) /
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Velasquez will face a big test by starting against the Cardinals. Photo by H. Martin/Getty Images. /

Decision time:

On Phillies sites, two schools of thought regarding the five-man staff were present. One was acquiring a starter at the trade deadline will be a must, and the other was it might not be necessary. On the other hand, both conclusions had clouded perceptions.

Firstly, posters favoring a swap look at stats and equate a youngster’s difficulties as his ceiling. By that logic, Cesar Hernandez would never be more than a reserve. In other words, they believe Eflin, Velasquez, and Pivetta had their shot. So, they’re ready for De Los Santos: They now like the Freddy Galvis trade.

The optimist stated a rotation of Nola, Arrieta, Eickhoff, Pivetta, and Eflin is solid; but it will depend on Eickhoff. On the other hand, this fan has already decided Velasquez and Lively are out by omitting them. However, this competition isn’t over by any means.

When spring training began, Eickhoff was second on the five-man staff to Nola until his lat strain and DL status. He made his first appearance on May 15 with the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils: 36 pitches over 3 1/3 frames. In fact, he could start two more games or rehab the maximum of a month if necessary.

"WORDS OF WISDOM: “It is better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared.” – Whitney M. Young"

The thing most dreaded by a big leaguer is returning to Triple-A after getting a taste of the Show. In other words, to be in the majors for a while reveals the difference. If the organization designates a player for assignment, he might land with another MLB franchise.

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