Call to the pen
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Phillies: Addressing 14 pitching worries for the 2019 campaign

By Tal Venada

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 28: Pitcher Zach Eflin #56 of the Philadelphia Phillies is congratulated by catcher Andrew Knapp #15 after pitching a complete game 5-1 win over the Miami Marlins during a game at Citizens Bank Park on April 28, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 28: Pitcher Zach Eflin #56 of the Philadelphia Phillies is congratulated by catcher Andrew Knapp #15 after pitching a complete game 5-1 win over the Miami Marlins during a game at Citizens Bank Park on April 28, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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When Robertson and Arano return, Ramos might make optioning him to Lehigh Valley a difficult decision. Photo by Alex Trautwig/MLB Photos via Getty Images. /

Job insecurity:

Because Jose Alvarez has no options remaining, the Phillies will employ the veteran as a left-handed specialist. He has a save and a hold with a 7.20 ERA. Yes, he will appear in some late frames if other hurlers aren’t available. To date, though, he’s had seven acceptable outings out of 11 for 63.6 percent.

Regarding Juan Nicasio, he’s managed six good appearances out of nine for a 66.7 percent average. He has a 5.84 ERA and one hold. For now, he’s mostly doing mop-up work, but he’ll be on the bubble when more valuable arms come off the IL.

Edubray Ramos has a 6.75 ERA, but he had a 2.32 ERA last summer. However, because he’s on his last active option, he may return to Lehigh Valley. At this time, though, he’s had three good and one so-so performance out of six for a rate of 66.7 percent.

While the Fightins currently have Nicasio, Ramos, and an IronPigs’ starter possibly working in long relief, Robertson, Arano and Hunter could take their place. Robertson will be the first one back, Arano has elbow inflammation without a timetable, and Hunter won’t be returning until mid-July.

National League rankings for ERA:

  • Phillies: a 4.23 overall ERA (7th), a 4.20 starter’s ERA (7th**), and a 4.27 pen ERA (7th).
  • Braves: a 4.84 overall ERA (12th), a 4.99 starter’s ERA (13th), and a 4.64 pen ERA (9th).
  • Nationals: a 4.98 overall ERA (13th), a 4.20 starter’s ERA (8th*), and a 6.57 pen ERA (15th).
  • Mets: a 5.32 overall ERA (15th), a 5.18 starter’s ERA (14th), and a 5.70 pen ERA (14th).
  • ** 158 2/3 innings, * 156 1/3 innings.

On paper, the Nationals and Mets have the pitching advantage, but the numbers are indicating the Phils aren’t the only NL East contender having difficulties. Basically, the pen is livable, the one-two punch is leading the rotation, and three maturing starters could be realizing their potential. Worry if you want to.

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