Phillies: Girardi’s new sandman coming to close

Filling out the pen:       

Dominguez and Neris won’t have difficulty with the new three-batter rule because the Phillies pitchers can usually handle at least one frame. Up first, Adam Morgan had an excellent 162 with an acceptable rate of 90 percent. And he’s been a solid bullpen piece for three seasons.

Although portsider Jose Alvarez is more effective against left-handed hitters, he pitched 29 2/3 innings facing them but 29 1/3 frames verses right-side bats. And he had a 2.43 ERA against same-side hitters, plus he’ll mostly see them if the relief corps is healthy.

In ’18, Victor Arano had 60 opportunities for 59 1/3 innings and finished with a 2.73 ERA. Health-wise, he’ll probably be on a slower schedule in February and March after only working 4 2/3 frames last summer. But he could earn a setup role if he picks up where he left off in 2018.

If Klentak signs only one starter, lefty Ranger Suarez could fill the Fightins’ five slot. Otherwise, he’ll possibly handle higher-leveraged situations in the sixth and seventh innings. But keep in mind, most relievers have control problems and pitch only a frame or two, though Suarez’s entry into the pen was due to injuries.

The Phils could stretch the left-hander out in Clearwater or Triple-A after having some major league success in ’19. Basically, the Los Angeles Dodgers have their promoted starters working out of the pen and advance them to the rotation when the need arises.

If Klentak doesn’t win the Gerrit Cole sweepstakes, he’ll need a fifth starter, who would either be Suarez or Vince Velasquez. Plus Velasquez and Nick Pivetta will have a shot to earn a relief spot from day one. Yes, the higher-ups will give Price the opportunity to harness their high-90’s fastballs. Or the GM could move them instead.