Phillies: In-depth rotation strategy for April and July

While the Phillies front office is now revealing their plan for the five-man staff by their moves, their faithful supporters are focusing on a missing piece and expressing their doubts for success.

Emerging answers:

For Philadelphia Phillies execs, 2019’s blueprint for the rotation has its monetary exceptions, but many franchises would also accept a similar financial deal. This two-part plan has no March acquisitions: The thinking covers the entire 162, and the first-half approach regardless of positive results anticipates a stretch-run need.

"IN OTHER WORDS:      “Success is 20% skills and 80% strategy.” – Jim Rohn"

Searching for clues prior to an announcement, writers will speculate because of an emptied-out locker at the end of March or July. Of course, a move-rumored player occasionally pranks the scribes by clearing out his belongings to ensnare his victims.

As for the tight-lipped red pinstripes, they can’t hide every strategic detail. For instance, their additions scream a win-now situation, while the specific left-hander they unsuccessfully bid on in December indicated how they view their developing starters. No, it’s not contradictory!

Entering the offseason, general manager Matt Klentak had varying degrees of concern for his rotation beyond the one-two punch atop it. And while some worries were about endurance, injury history, and/or the realization of ability, the GM wants to maximize each hurler’s potential.

To illustrate, Vince Velasquez and Jerad Eickhoff are working at a slower pace. Velasquez needs to build up his endurance to be effective in August and September, plus he usually sustains some injuries. As for Eickhoff, he’s returned after missing almost an entire campaign.

Regarding the four starters establishing themselves, Klentak has plans based on their past. The idea is to determine which one will slot behind Aaron Nola and Jake Arrieta, and which others will be effective fourth or fifth arms on the five-man staff. Yes, some may have reached their ceiling or spend time on the injured list.

The moundsman find these answers in their usage. And If the starter is increasing his March innings in relief, he’s closer to the bottom. But the order also determines management’s evaluation of each pitcher prior to Opening Day including Velasquez and Eickhoff who are on a slower track.