4 reasons to believe in the Phillies despite the poor start
2) Reason to believe in the Phillies despite the poor start: Reinforcements are on the way
Bryce Harper is working his way back pic.twitter.com/b7ulKwbwIZ
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) April 25, 2023
He's coming. There hasn't been a more encouraging video surrounding the Phillies than this one released today. Bryce Harper looks awfully good in this video throwing. We won't see him in right field for a while, but number three is targeting an early May return to the Phillies. He'll be the DH to start, but maybe a first base appearance could be coming?
Harper returning as the DH might not be the most ideal, but having that bat in the lineup should help an offense currently tied for 15th in baseball in runs scored. There's no understating the impact Harper has in any lineup.
Harper isn't the only guy on the cusp of returning. Ranger Suarez is getting ready to start his first rehab game in what should be a long assignment in the minors. Harper should be back first, but Suarez might be back sometime in May as well.
Ranger Suárez was throwing in the bullpen at the time Rob Thomson met with the media this afternoon. Assuming all went well, the plan is for him to throw two innings for Double-A Reading on Thursday.
— Tim Kelly (@TimKellySports) April 25, 2023
We saw the guy Suarez could be in the postseason as he posted a 1.23 ERA in five appearances (three starts). He was the most consistent Phillies pitcher that entire run.
When Suarez returns, they get their number three starter back. The Phillies could either run a six-man rotation or push one of Matt Strahm or Bailey Falter to the bullpen. Either way, the starters will either get more rest or the bullpen gets stronger. I see either option as feasible.
The Phillies won't get Rhys Hoskins back, but the other reinforcements on the cusp of returning should get Phillies fans excited.