While the Phillies faithful are on pins and needles regarding a major free-agent signing, general manager Matt Klentak is busy motivating his contemporaries with other bullpen options.
Countdown to Clearwater:
The Philadelphia Phillies front office is adapting to the changing market for free agency, trades and competitive-balance penalties. Today, franchises must study their 29 competitors’ rosters, financial situations and operating philosophies.
"IN OTHER WORDS: “The best decision-makers are always armed with the best information and data!” – George Raveling"
Until the red pinstripes add a big bat, the everyday eight will be the same from February 12 through March 27. And the rotation, barring a signing, will be a one-two punch plus four hurlers for the other three slots. So, for now, the current action involves the Phils’ relief corps and their competition’s.
While the hometown nine have the financial resources for an expensive, long-term commitment, many clubs are at or near their limit. Additionally, Luxury Tax consequences are not to most team owners’ liking: Other organizations are more budget-conscious due to their present circumstances.
With spring training just days away, most franchises have proceeded with their offseason objectives despite another slow free-agent market. In other words, they move on from players and agents who don’t make decisions within a reasonable time frame. Yeah, Scott Boras!
As for Klentak, he has determined the value of Pat Neshek, Tommy Hunter and Juan Nicasio. But will he reassess his expectations from November before mid-March if it means inking a left-handed starter? Well, that might just be the reality the exec will be facing.
Even though the Boras Corporation doesn’t have a reliever currently involved, they are in the picture with a slugger and a rotation portsider. So, Klentak might swap Neshek and/or Hunter to sign a southpaw for the five-man staff. Translation: the GM would take a lower offer for either if the overall dollars work.
On the other hand, the red pinstripes have three extra relievers and could sustain three activation delays into April due to injuries. But another club may also experience an unexpected bullpen need for an arm or two. And if they do, Klentak will have the upper hand in negotiations to finalize a deal.