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Phillies: 2020’s playoff-bound ifs (a long version)

By Tal Venada

PHILADELPHIA, PA - AUGUST 30: Aaron Nola #27 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after hitting a double in the bottom of the third inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on August 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - AUGUST 30: Aaron Nola #27 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after hitting a double in the bottom of the third inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on August 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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Kingery’s third season will probably deliver the promise fans have been waiting for. Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images. /

Ifs and surprises:                   

While Nola will set the tone for the Phillies staff, most eyes will be on Zack Wheeler. And he could provide a welcomed jolt to the rotation and relieve some pressure on Nola. Basically, he’s been dependable, healthy, and successful for the last two summers with flashes of brilliance. But will he elevate his game?

Slotting third, Zach Eflin is due for a breakout season, and ’19 was decent except for the pitching coach’s high-fastball approach to this sinker baller. But the new instructor isn’t an analytics-driven newcomer like last year. No, Bryan Price has a solid resume and has received high praise from his peers: Just what Eflin needs.

Jake Arrieta has been here for two campaigns, and there are three of him: healthy, pitching injured semi-effectively, and working his way to a season-ending IL stint. But if he can be a serviceable fourth arm on the five-man staff, he’ll pitch his way to a new commitment elsewhere.

Adam Haseley joined the Phils only due to injuries. But being 1-2 years early didn’t stop him from batting .266 and opening the right eyes with ’20 in mind. Other than Scott Kingery‘s position, though, the first half will be a battle between Haseley here and Alec Bohm at Triple-A for center field or third base respectively.

If Klentak acquires a critical-situation fireman –the most important need– Vince Velasquez will probably be the five-slot starter. And he doesn’t have to be a stud to contribute every fifth day. No, he just needs to keep the Fightins in the game with a chance to win: A 4.20 ERA and 150 frames aren’t unrealistic expectations.

To date, the red pinstripes are the top landing spot for *Dellin Betances. And it could be a one-summer contract for $7-10 million. So, the if here is health and the strong potential of becoming the team’s top reliever. Plus the comfort of having Joe Girardi in the dugout is a huge advantage. *Signed by the Mets.

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