The Philadelphia Phillies had an absolutely outrageous start to August, but now they’re floundering once again. Even Zack Wheeler had a rough start on Friday.
There’s hope on the horizon, though, as the Phillies have several players returning from injury who could be real difference-makers on this team. Even if these players aren’t significant upgrades, at this point in the season, they would provide more rest for the everyday players, and more versatility for Girardi’s lineups and bullpen.
Let’s look at four players who are expected to be game-ready in August and September…
Freddy Galvis could help the Phillies infield
Phillies fans are very excited for Galvis’ return, as the player was a homegrown talent who made his MLB debut in a Phillies uniform and played his first six seasons here.
Galvis considers Philadelphia his home, and has said repeatedly since the trade that he always felt he’d end up back with the Phillies. He was on the Injured List with a quad strain when the Phillies traded for him, but is expected to return before the end of August.
Prior to his injury, Galvis was hitting .249/.306/.414 with a .720 OPS, 12 doubles, a triple, nine home runs, 26 RBI, and a stolen base in 72 games.
He probably won’t be an everyday player, and will no doubt platoon with Didi Gregorius and other infielders, but Galvis is ready to make an impact.