That Balls Outta Here
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Phillies: Five things to watch for vs the Rockies

By George Stockburger

Jul 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of the sunset in the sixth inning of the game between the Colorado Rockies and the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of the sunset in the sixth inning of the game between the Colorado Rockies and the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 20, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Vince Velasquez’ struggles continue

It seems like every week Vince Velasquez needs to rebound after a poor outing. The righty gave up five runs for the third time in eight starts this season. In 5.1 innings, Velasquez allowed seven hits and two walks while collecting six strikeouts.

Velasquez kept the Pirates to two runs through five innings before he headed back out for the sixth inning despite already throwing 90 pitches. The Pirates blew the game open with four runs in the inning, three of which were charged to Velasquez.

May 6, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Cameron Rupp (29) talks with starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) after he allowed a three run home run to Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) (not pictured) during the sixth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Cameron Rupp (29) talks with starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) after he allowed a three run home run to Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) (not pictured) during the sixth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

After the start, Velasquez expressed his frustration to reporters, telling them he needed a complete overhaul with his approach. Pitching coach Bob McClure said that he needs to work with Velasquez to improve the mental aspect of his game: [quote via Matt Gelb of Philly.com]

"“I just think he has to improve on how he looks at things, his perception of things. That’s how you improve. Stay straight with yourself. Understand what happened. How do I fix it? Try that. It doesn’t work? Try this. Without an overhaul. It’s more of how you perceive what’s going on.”"

Hopefully, McClure is able to find a way to get to Velasquez and understand his thought process. Those results could come as early as Thursday afternoon in his start against the Rockies.

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