While some Phillies fans are wondering about the bottom two rungs of the starting staff, general manager Matt Klentak will strategically continue employing a quick hook until two hurlers step up to claim those roles with consistency.
Incentives and clues:
For Philadelphia Phillies management, the carrot is a rotation slot, and the stick is demotion to the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs or a bullpen assignment. Basically, four moundsmen are vying for two spots in a win-now atmosphere from ownership on down, and this will test the players’ makeup for the second half.
"IN OTHER WORDS: “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” – Lou Holtz"
In the running, Vince Velasquez, Jerad Eickhoff, Nick Pivetta and Cole Irvin have proven they can have successful –albeit inconsistent– outings. But, eventually, the two best will be starting every fifth day by July 1, and they will compete for the fifth slot if Klentak acquires a veteran arm: preferably, a southpaw.
At this time, immediate needs are taking precedence, especially when the series involves a potential October opponent. But, currently, the setup relievers on the IL (injured list) have forced the Fightins to call on Velasquez and Lehigh Valley hurlers to piece together additional innings against strong lineups. Ergo, do-or-die!
After facing the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers, the Phils will have a tougher task ahead with the Los Angeles Dodgers. So, the important thing for these four pitchers is to keep the team in the game because these are their most important auditions. And immediate corrections will occur like Irvin after his Chicago debacle.
Even if two starters claim the two bottom rungs, Klentak will probably deal for a lefty or a veteran moundsman for the two or three spot with Zach Eflin slotting fourth. Yes, the red pinstripes are considering a postseason rotation. But other playoff-bound franchises will compete to fill their shortcomings also.
Basically, the front office doesn’t carry all the weight for adding the pieces needed to battle for the National League pennant. The manager, coaches and players know they must win to earn the additional financial commitment for the execs to go all in.
In some cases, the hometown nine will utilize a hurler in relief or demote another as motivation. But the luck of the draw can also happen if the IronPigs starter lines up with the parent club’s opening like Irvin did. However, everything is immediately subject to change.