Call to the pen
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National League East: What Needs to go Right for Each Team

By Michael Francis

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 07: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game Three of the National League Division Series at SunTrust Park on October 7, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 07: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game Three of the National League Division Series at SunTrust Park on October 7, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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Philadelphia Phillies Outfielder Bryce Harper
(Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images) /

Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies won the off-season like no other team has ever won an off-season. They acquired one of the best relievers in baseball in David Robertson and one of the better outfielders in the game with Andrew McCutchen. They improved both offensively and defensively at short stop with Jean Segura, and they traded for J.T. Realmuto, arguably the best catcher in the game. To top it all off they spent $330 million over 13 years to sign Bryce Harper. However, all of these moves still didn’t quite make them the clear favorites in the eyes of the projections. Even with the infusion of talent, the Phillies are going to need a few things to bounce right to win this division.

The 2018 Philadelphia Phillies were the worst defensive team ever according to Defensive Runs Saved. While they dramatically improved their over the winter by trading away Carlos Santana, moving Rhys Hoskins back to first base and adding Jean Segura, they still may be one of the worst defensive teams in the National League. While their lineup is formidable, most of their position player are projected to be below average at their position, which may take some value away from their pitchers.

The Phillies are also going to need at least one of their starting pitchers behind Aaron Nola to step up and be a reliable #2. Former Cy Young award winner, Jake Arrieta, could be that guy but I expect Nick Pivetta to break out this year into the Phillies second best pitcher. Pivetta’s strikeout and walk numbers were excellent last season, but he gave up a few too many long balls. If Pivetta can lower his home run rate and get some better batted ball luck in front of an improved defense, he should be able to be an excellent compliment to Nola in the Phillies’ rotation.

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