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Phillies: Three takeaways from the Gregorius, Wheeler press conference

By George Stockburger

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 20: Phillies general manager Matt Klentak of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on prior to the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park on September 20, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 20: Phillies general manager Matt Klentak of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on prior to the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park on September 20, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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CLEARWATER, FL – MARCH 02: Phillies Vice President & General Manager Matt Klentak listens to the question from a media member during the press conference to introduce Bryce Harper to the media and the fans of the Philadelphia Phillies on March 02, 2019 at the Spectrum Field in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

The Phillies aren’t done adding to the rotation

Girardi talked today about having Zach Eflin, Nick Pivetta, and Vince Velasquez competing to “fill out the rotation” for the final three spots behind Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, and Jake Arrieta.

Girardi sees the rotation as one of the Phillies “strengths” and says you don’t necessarily need a lefty to have a successful rotation.

Klentak added onto that notion that the team wants to see new pitching coach Bryan Price get his hands on the young guys after a year of Chris Young throwing too much at them. 

When asked if the Phillies are done making big moves because of the luxury tax, Klentak acknowledged that they are up against the artificial cap, but that they will continue to be opportunistic to get better, including in the rotation. As Klentak noted, there still about six weeks until pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater and a lot can happen between now and then, and even before April.

“I won’t know for certain we won’t add another starter…. it’s possible that we will.”

If Philadelphia is shopping in the free agent bargain bin, a name they’ve been connected to is Wade Miley. MLB Trade Rumors predicts the 33-year-old lefty to get $16 million over two years, which would put the Phillies over the luxury tax if they don’t make another move.

Alex Wood is another lefty on the market, and he could sign a one year “prove it deal” after a rough go in Cincinnati. He projects to make the same AAV on a prove it deal.

Reuniting with Drew Smyly on a minor league is another option after he had a 4.45 ERA in Philadelphia last season.

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