487 thoughts on “Phillies Discussion (5/31/2026)”

1. That’s where my head is at. As painful as it can be to watch young players try to figure it out in the big leagues its not as painful as watching a 32 y/o making $10 million plus try to revamp his career.

   On one level the cost of the veterans on this team is sunk. Putting another retread next to them in the LU isn’t going to change anything if they themselves are not producing commensurate with their paycheck.

   My 2 cents anyway.

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   1. There is no way that a Rincones/Reyes platoon in the OF would be worse than Adolis right now

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2. Charlotte Varnes in the Athletic just out with an article on Nori, Rincon and Wood. I’m increasingly finding Rincon to be about the most interesting developing player we have. The glove has always been there, but his figuring out hitting is huge. It sounds like he might got to Lehigh at some point this summer, and from there, all it takes is an injury on the big club.

   I’d wondered earlier here who might be Phillies’ 3B next year, and now I’m suddenly wondering whether Turner could do it. Whether he’d agree is another matter.

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   1. I don’t like the idea of turner butchering hot shots to third base. In my opinion I think 2b is probably his only transition besides corner OF.

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      1. I don’t disagree with this, if what Rincon is showing with his bat is for real.

         I think Stott would be able to handle 3B but since he’s a FA in 2028, he’ll be a stopgap.

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3. Can we let Marsh be leadoff.. marsh/harper/scwarb/bohm/turner/stott whomever else happens to be playing baseball that day

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4. Nola to night. BOMBS AWAYS

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   1. speaking of Nola… I wonder if the Angels would take him in a Mike Trout trade to offset the money they’d have to eat to get a better prospect… food for thought.. maybe. Not as outlandish as it would’ve been a few years ago

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      1. There’s absolutely, positively no way that Nola will waive his 10-5 rights to go to the Angels. And why would the Angels want him anyways???

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         1. to get a better to return for trout. He’s owed a lot of money,and has an injury history. Freeing up Nola’s money to pay for offensive help, not the worst idea.

            Gotta wonder if Trout is ever going to get sick of missing the playoffs… imho, one more year if not this year. Next trade deadline he will be dealt. Best he’s had is his showdown with Ohtani in the WBC. We know what happened.

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            1. I’m pretty sure that if Trout wanted out, the Angels would get better than Nola (who’s owed $98M!)

               And again, Nola is not going anywhere without his permission.

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      2. i will drive him to California if they do

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      3. Im not sure they would take him him for a trout dinner let alone for mike trout

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5. Renteria debuted in DSL last night 2 for 3 with a triple and a walk

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   1. in fairness, his triple was lost in the sun

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6. 17 yr old kid in your report sat 93-96 and hit 99 with 3 perfect innings. Yamsil S.

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7. 17-year-old Yilmar Samudio made his pro debut yesterday for the DSL Phillies! His fastest pitch of the day came in at 99 mph

   3.0 IP | 0 H | 0 ER | 0 BB | 6 K

   https://x.com/PhilsPlayerDev/status/2061840523564900578?s=20

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   1. Whoa, he’s 17? He already has a big league fastball and a decent curveball. I can’t imagine what he will become when he starts adding weight. He’s a likely top 100 prospect in 2 years.

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   2. Can find quality prospects with projection on smallish bonuses…..Panamanian RHP Yilmar Samudio signed his contract 5 months ago for $100,000 …could end being a great deal.

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      1. Marquez $10,000. One was like buying a six pack of Schlitz and the other a six of Stegmaier

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         1. Hey, watch it! We practically grew up on Stegmaier. And Yuengling before it became a yuppie beer.

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8. Word out on the streets here in Storrs, Connecticut is that if Nola’s wife gives birth to a boy, they are thinking about naming him Rocco.

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9. Well said Jim. Can not say I disagree on much of anything you stated. Looks like Phillies are headed for another ho hum year at this pace. I do not see any magic bullets anywhere on the horizon.

   Phillies are what they are. A .500 baseball team.

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   1. Dam Don your most famous guy I know

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10. I believe Johan Rojas is eligible to return on June 25th, I assume he would need to go on a rehab assignment for a while though. Crawford is 6 for his last 46 AB’s, and has struggled in CF. If he continues to struggle will they be forced to send him down? Not saying Rojas is the answer but if you have him available it at least helps the decision I would assume. With how badly Garcia is doing at the plate, just wonder how long this can go on for before they are forced into a trade.

    Also with Nola I saw a video on youtube where they were pointing out this his curveball is still excellent but the problem is his FB is getting crushed right now. Since he’s not going likely to be traded I wonder if they will need to stash him in the pen at some point.

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    1. His usage and percent so far: 2026:

       ….4Smr-27%……2Smr/Sinker-19%….CutFB-9%…..Curve-33%….Change-12%…..no sliders/sweepers

       He is mixing it up well…..but everything comes off the fastball….and if it is getting mashed, what can you do!

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       1. …throw 3 curveballs in a row?

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    2. Id 1000x rather Crawford keep getting chances than going back to Rojas. Crawford has been struggling but he seems to not be overmatched in big moments and he has to be given the slack to work it out in the big leagues. I might think otherwise if we havent done the Rojas thing for the last 3 seasons, but we know what he is.

       If the Phillies are down 1 in the ninth with runners on, there is no world where you would rather Rojas be up to bat than Crawford.

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       1. Rojas and Crawford are both liable to make bad plays in the field. With Rojas it looks like his mind goes blank. With Crawford it looks like he needs more experience. I’ll go with Justin.

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    3. I don’t think they are going to send Crawford down, in fact in the beginning of the year they said they weren’t going to play that game that game. Rojas …… have fun at AAA we have enough outfielders that can’t hit. Most of our outfield with the exception of Marsh can be added as “throw-ins” if anyone needs a little more to make a deal. Truth of the matter …….. I think we are “lucky” if by some chance we can unload most of these guys. Only real value is in our pitchers.

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       1. Even though he is struggling….his K rate is still less than 20% at 19% and BB rate at 7%……batted ball at.285 so he does have some bad luck going on., however GB% at 62% is really pretty high. And that was what his hang up in the past was all about.

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11. Romus on darien street, waiting for bombs off Noka

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    1. So it must be a mandatory hard hit area.

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12. Well he did give up the 2 tun homer. But you can’t be mad about 5 IP, 2 ER out of your 4/5 starter.

    Especially since the homer pitch had too much plate, but it wasn’t exactly a meatball. He worked the edges of the zone very well today.

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13. Brayden Tucker wow just keeps going

    same with Macgarlane

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    1. McFarlane

       and Keaton Anthony is picking up where he took off

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       1. Keaton Anthony can hit but he’s limited to 1B/DH. I think eventually he’ll find his way onto the Phillies roster as a pure pinch hitter vs lefties. But he’ll be lucky to make 1 start per week.

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    2. Steve you keep thinking tucker can help. He can’t break a egg.91 mph. He won’t get out triple a guys, let alone major league hitters. Look at his innings pitch and strike outs ?

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       1. rocco….correct.

          RHPs have to have mid-90s on up velo to be effective. LHP can get away with the low 90s FB velo.

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          1. Just an FYI – the top 20th percentile K/9 threshold for starting pitchers is generally anything at or above 7.56 – Braydon is right there career wise and this season at 7.58. 

             He’s also leading the Eastern League in ERA amongst qualified players at 1.24 and in fact at the moment has the top ERA amongst all minor league pitchers who qualify for innings pitched. He’s third in the Eastern League in WHIP amongst qualified players.

             Regarding his pitch velocity he’s touched 95 mph multiple times this season but general sits 91-94 with his sinker which he mixes with a cutter and sweeper – will on occasion throw a spilt finger change up and slider. Mixes well and throws from the third base side of the rubber for increased deception – hides ball well throughout the delivery.  Puts me in mind of Merrill Kelly. 

             In regards to his age I’ve had multiple scouts, front office folks and coaches tell me that the age of a player is low on the list of relevance – it’s the level of play they are performing at that tells you their ability. Braydon is excelling at the second highest level of player development baseball – I don’t know who the other Steve is who was impressed by his performance last evening but I wholeheartedly agree that he should be – everyone should give the kid his just due. Just saying. 

             Steve Potter 

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             1. Parker Messick doesn’t throw hard, but he pitches accurately, deceives, works fast, and should be the favorite to win rookie pitcher of the year for Cleveland.

                IMHO, if DD is out after this year and there’s a salary cap, Phillies should consider someone from Cleveland’s operation.

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             2. Want to see how he will do at the AAA level…..which as it is going now, will be very soon.

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                1. I wouldn’t be so sure of that – it’s been very difficult for players to advance from AA to AAA in the organization as they view AA and below as developmental and AAA as “stay ready”. In other organizations he may have already been afforded a shot at the show. It’s a tough discussion to get kids advanced here 🤓.

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14. Stott and Marsh are doing a meet and greet Friday night the 19th of June which is a really odd off night. Is that because of World Cup?

    Looks like we play the Mets at home with Thursday Sat and Sunday games. Typically you only see that in the opening day schedule with Monday and Thursdays being usual days off if any.

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15. Parker Messick with his fastball is averaging just under 94 mph this year (93.9 to be exact).

    By the way, Aaron Nola’s average fastball velocity is 92.5 mph this year, up from 91.8 mph last year. In his two best seasons (2018 and 2022) he averaged 92.9 mph.

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16. Not a good update on Aidan:

    After seeing spine specialists recently, Phillies prospect Aidan Miller will undergo a minimally invasive procedure called a radiofrequency ablation of the facet joints on Friday. He’ll rest 1 week then return to rehab with goal of game activity in 6-8 weeks.

    https://x.com/Paul_CasellaMLB/status/2062211117628182674?s=20

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    1. The concern for me is what i read in an Inquirer article about this. This is for pain relief, not any type of cure. they said patients can expect about 9 months of relief if it works.

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17. I know a handful of folks that had similar procedures. Half (maybe) have reported dramatic relief the others very minimal. I take it as a positive that they now know where to focus their attention.

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    1. I am in that boat now…..but a little more intense…..spinal stenosis….which is just a narrowing of the spinal canal pinching the sciatica due to arthritic facet joints….plus disc herniation.

       But for a 21-year old….not sure what else is going on. Can be a tough road ahead for him.

       Eagles Cam Jurgens had his lower back ablation procedure right after the Super bowl in Feb ’26. …came back for the next season, but one more year of additional healing will help his cause.

       Good luck to Aidan.

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       1. Super bowl in Feb ’25. 

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18. The Padres have DFA d. Castellanos

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    1. Well he did have a career earning of just over $140M….not too bad for a career 14WAR and under guy.

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       1. 170 million most likely after taxes about 85 million. Wonder if don made that much playing?

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    2. Diabolical! In Philly? Really?

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19. Dante Nori is hitting .239 with a .664 OPS. Had his struggles in the month of May, but is making some changes to his swing. “Went really narrow. Never been narrow. Getting used to that. Getting the timing down with the mini adjustments. Foot keeps creeping forward, things like that.”

    https://x.com/JeffKerrPHL/status/2062190339666907606

    Then today, Dante Nori: 3-6, 2RS, RBI, SB. His first 3 hit day since May 1st per Mitch Rupert,

    https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2062229915626344543

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20. Jean Cabrera is rapidly looking like he needs a change of scenery.

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21. Tanner Gresham (5 IP, 8 Ks), Marty Gair (1 IP, 1 K), and Gabe Craig (1 IP, 3 Ks) combine on a 7-inning no-hitter in Clearwater’s 2-0 win in the first game of a doubleheader against St Lucie. Just two walks kept it from a perfect game.

    https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2062290964736045416

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22. Matt Klentak’s best trade….Sanchez for Mead.

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    1. Yep, I remember all the complaints that we would actually consider trading Meads for Sanchez. 😅🤣😂🤣

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23. Felix Reyes with another moon shot, now tied for fourth in the International League with 13 home runs after this 2-run shot for Lehigh Valley.

    https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2062331716383969309

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    1. The gap between MLB pitching and AAA pitching is similar to the gap between high school pitching and AAA pitching. It’s just a totally different universe.

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       1. That is surely hyperbole

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          1. Maybe a little hyperbole. But not much. It is a massive gap between AAA and MLB pitching. We have seen it over and over. Otto Kemp was a monster in AAA. .987 OPS in 2025. His OPS in MLB is .656. That’s just one example but you see it over and over. Reyes has an OPS in AAA of 1.034. Monster. He looked totally overmatched at MLB level. You think they are keeping him down in AAA if they thought he could hit MLB pitching? They want to win.

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             1. You aren’t wrong, he did look overmatched at the MLB level, but it really was not a great situation for him. He went from playing every day in AAA to playing once or twice a week in the bigs, plus he probably put a ton of extra pressure on himself every at bat knowing that he HAD to impress or risk getting sent down. He never really got a shot to get comfortable and while it would have been nice to see a few more hits, I dont think that sample size is fair to judge him on.

                Im not sitting here saying Felix Reyes is great or a future star, but I do think that its very possible that a Reyes/Rincones platoon could be more productive than Adolis given how bad he has been. I know Rincones is working his way back from injury so that isnt happening anytime soon.

                TDLR: I don’t think Reyes is a future star but I’m not ready to write him off based on that very small MLB audition he got and think he could be a solid RH platoon guy

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       2. Its pretty big but what is even bigger is the analytics scouting and game planning.

          Every pitcher in the MLB knows exactly where to pitch a hitter, where not to pitch a hitter so ultimately it comes down to execution where yes in the MLB those pitchers are much better at executing their pitches.

          Crawford increasingly is becoming a great example of that. They continue to pitch him above his hands and A. He continues to swing at that pitch and B. He continues to not be able to catch up to it.

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          1. Good point. No question that the scouting report is better at MLB level. They find the hole in your swing and then MLB pitchers can hit that hole relentlessly with explosive stuff. It is just massively different than hitting at AAA.

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24. been following that Raylin Heredia for couple years now. Mainly because of his arm in right field. Always been a fan of the guys in RF with the cannons. From Clemente, Valentine, Parker and Garcia ( hope he gets little more time to turn it around). Heredia little bit of free swinger but I’m ok with that (better then watching Stott watch every 1st pitch K go by). Be nice to have home-grown right handed right fielder

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    1. Warren Cromartie was one of my favorite RFs with a howitzer for an arm. He recorded a league-leading 24 OF assists during the 1978 MLB season.

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       1. Cromartie mainly played first base but was in LF IN 1978. I think you’re thinking about Ellis Valentine who had 25 in 1978. Cromartie had 24 and Andre Dawson 17. They formed an unforgettable outfield.

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25. This Aidan Miller new is very upsetting. Feels like something that he will have to deal with his entire career.

    https://x.com/975TheFanatic/status/2062261909827526888?s=20

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    1. Yes it very well mat be…..his procedure could be similar to Cm Jurgens’ of the Eagles from last year. Not quite sure.

       Left field may be an option for him…may be less strain on the lower lumbar region.

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       1. may…not mat

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    2. Yikes, this is bad

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26. Was thinking of the RH hitting issues and maybe an outside the box trade to make would be to the Twins for Royce Lewis. They demoted him recently to AAA and he has been hitting well. Former 1st overall pick seems to have fallen out of favor and maybe a classic change of scenery for a 26 year old is what is needed. Just not sure if he can play LF or not and what it would cost to acquire him because of years of team control…..thoughts?

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    1. I hear you on Royce Lewis but he is horribly injury prone. Makes Mike Trout look like a regular attendee of mlb games.

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27. I play the game operation a lot. Miller procedure. Is really tough Hit or miss.

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28. Former Phillies prospect Kevin Gowdy has retired from baseball. Unfortunately, he never had a cup of coffee in the bigs.

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    1. That draft still irks me. Not because of the picks. If you look at who went in the Top they were all busts or mediocre at best. Its that we had the number 1 overall and very little to choose from. We had a bonus pool of $13 million.

       Reviewing it again the best player in the 1st round might have been Will Smith who went to the Dodgers at 32 as compensation for Zach Greinke signing with the D-Backs LOL.

       Go back and look at that draft its astonishing how bad it was for many teams.

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29. In the last thread, The Guru questioned how the Padres were so many games over .500 when they don’t seem to be able to hit. I agree. That star studded ensemble of high salaried players is totally listless. But what amazes me more is that the Phillies aren’t much better.

    The Phillies are much better in starting pitching and a little less than even in the bullpen. Our boys scored 3 runs in each of the last two games to barely pull out victories. On the Reyes front, I saw he played first base the other day. Why isn’t he playing LF every day?

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30. Let’s start with the realization that the Phillies are pot committed. They can not be sellers. They have to go for it.

    They also have 3 excellent SPs that all are worthy of starting playoff games. Additionally they have an elite closer and other good bullpen pieces.

    3 of their 9 hitters are having excellent seasons (Schwarber, Harper and Marsh). I am very confident that Trae will figure it out soon. He won the friggin batting title last year. JT is just a defensive catcher at this point in his career. Crawford is a rookie who is fine. He isn’t killing the lineup and he costs nearly zero salary. That leaves 3 others – Stott, Bohm and Garcia.

    Imo, if they Phillies want to win, they have to upgrade at least 2 of these positions.

    • In RF there are two legitimate options: Taylor Ward and Spencer Steer. I don’t know if Cincinnati would trade Steer, but Ward will definitely be on the market
    • At 2B, the all in move is to try to get Marte from Arizona. That would be costly.
    • At 3B, Paredes could be on the market.

    And if you go after these guys, I think that you also should go after Skrubal too.

    Bottom line our window is closing. Dodgers are a great team. Adding only a RF at the deadline is only kidding ourselves. If you go for it, then go for it.

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    1. So let’s say they go all in. What does that look like?

       • Upgrade 2B: Ketel Marte for Stott, Painter, Nori and Alex McFarlane
       • Upgrade RF: Taylor Ward for Aroon Escobar and Wen-Hui Pan

       Ok. So let’s say they pull those off…then Detroit says, we will give you last call on Skrubal, it will cost you: Gage Wood, Matthew Fisher, Griffin Burkholder and Romeli Espinosa

       Do you do all of these deals? If not, which of these deals do you not do?

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       1. Maybe the Taylor Ward deal, but that’s about it. Even with these deals, the Phillies would likely still be the underdogs vs the Dodgers. These are the type of deals that takes a decade for teams to recover from. I don’t want to wake up and realize that the Phillies have no shot at winning anything for the next 10 years.

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          1. They have a lot of money coming off the books. They can retain Skrubal if they are willing to give him length.

             A rotation of Skrubal, Sanchez, Wheeler, Luzardo in the playoffs can beat any time.

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             1. * team not “time”. Typo

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       2. Pretty much eviscerates the system, doesn’t it. Fulfills the reputstion DD has built, right or wrong. Is one world series championship worth years of mediocrity? That is …….. if you can guarantee the championship!

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          1. Why do you assume that they can’t resign Skrubal?

             Let’s say he has a magical playoff run with the Phillies. And they are willing to give him a monster contract. Why would he not resign?

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       3. These are interesting….

          Would I do them? No but I am not one who believes in windows. This team could win with what they have. Personally I believe some of these guys could end up coming alive in the playoffs.

          We’ve seen it so many times. Players have great seasons then don’t show up in the playoffs others have mediocre seasons then become the MVP of a series.

          Certainly you could defend it on paper. I suppose GMs love these types of pillaging of a system because if it doesn’t work they can defend it by saying the players didn’t come through.

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          1. I am sick of the half measures. If they want to go for it, then go for it.

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             1. Haha you’re probably quite a bit younger than I so I get it…

                I’ll just say this the trade deadline is Monday August 3rd. That’s quite a ways away in a baseball season.

                That and a new CBA would have a huge bearing on how I’d want to manage my team going forward.

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                1. I am 50. Been a Phillies fan since the Von Hayes days. First draft I cared about was when we took Wayne Gomes.

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             2. I agree 100%.

                Four years ago, we needed outfield help. We’re still in the same boat. Bryson Stott was going to win a batting title one day. Still not. Bohm can’t handle any type of pressure, he folds like a deck of cards.

                And here we are. Holding tightly to Aiden Miller, Andrew Painter, and Justin Crawford.

                I don’t know if we have a “window” or whatever, but I can’t see us still being a top team without making some hard decisions here.

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          2. Personally Skubal’s health is a yellow flag for me…throws violent with UCL/elbow procedures already, turns 30……..may get one or two good years, then the cliff arrives. Seen it too many times.

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       4. I do Taylor Ward – but it’s a shame, he was there for the taking in the offseason but, yet again, they signed the wrong experienced veteran. I also try to trade for Eugenio Suarez if he’s cheap (and I think he will be) – if you’re trying to win a WS, that’s a lottery ticket worth buying.

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31. Last I looked, trivia factoid, …..average MLB BA for LHBs this season is .248….for RHBs it is .242.

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32. Garcia last couple games been hitting line drives to right/ center. Most have been caught. I think a good sign. With his defense give it a little time. A cannon in RF is an asset. Especially on a team lacking defense

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    1. Homered today, doubled over the CF yesterday, fingers crossed.

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33. I remember back when Hinkie was with us. He posted a then Rays Alvarado pitching. His fastball had so much movement! The Phillies got him soon after that and he’s had some good years but his fast ball doesn’t move like that any more.

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34. According to reports, the Red Sox are planning to option down struggling 27 year old Brayan Bello. Because he signed an early deal with the Red Sox, he’s still owed 4/65 if he continues to stink.

    On the heels of news like this, should the Phillies option down Andrew Painter?

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    1. And start who instead??

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       1. Don is available

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    2. I would not. I’m putting my trust in the player and Cotham to get him the experience he needs for the long run. I believe him being around Zach and Aaron is invaluable.

       Maybe I’m putting too much faith in that but we shall see.

       Am I the only one here willing to exercise a modicum of patience? I’m not purposely being negative. I understand feelings of desperation to have it now I just don’t think good decisions are made in those moments.

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       1. As Confucius say …….the oxen is slow, but the earth is patient.

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35. Gage wood 4 inn. 4 hits . One run .4 Ks. O walks. 56 pitches. 2.45

    Graves 4 inn. 3 hits. 2 ER. 1 BB. 7 Ks. 84 pitches 3.49

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36. Keaton Anthony back to hitting. 2-4 tonight.

    hitting .370 in 46 ABs since returning

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    1. I love Keaton. He is one of my favorites. I think that he will be a long time MLB player. It won’t be in Philly. But that kid can hit.

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       1. Agreed. He will have to find a team that can use a first basemen only.

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       2. First of all, I agree that Anthony can hit and I mean, he can really hit. He’s going to be a legitimate major league hitter in some form. My other view is that legitimate hitting (and especially right-handed hitting) is at huge premium right now league-wide and for the Phillies in particular. Anthony hits righty and can also play rightfield. I’m not trading him and giving the guy at chance because if he can be an average big league hitter, it’s worth it to keep him around to see what he can do.

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          1. According to BR, Anthony has only played 1B/DH for the Phillies (4 years).

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37. White Sox in town with 33 wins…who would have thunk!

    And throwing, and yet, another lefty…Anthony Kay, former Met from Univ of Conn at Storrs, who has 5 wins this year already.

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38. Romus I was looking at pirates, if we had there lineup we would be awesome.

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    1. rocco……get back to me in August on the Buccos’ lineup …in the meantime get yourself up to Saratoga…Renegade.

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       1. I am going to the traverse.in August. I love Saragota New York.

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39. Check out the arm angle on Cade. Brutal for a left handed hitter. Paired with a nasty slider, his floor is a nasty late inning reliever. probably needs to add a third pitch to be a starter.

    https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2062677263259201820?s=20

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    1. Chris Sale Ish….

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       1. I met Chris Sale back in 2014 when he was with the Chi Sox in the family room after his opening day start. Might have been the tallest human I ever shook hands with.

          Very gracious with his time and curious to know who we were related to and where we were from.

          Obviously a guy I always pulled for after that…

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       2. Made me think of Madison Bumgarner for some reason.

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          1. It’s a very low arm slot. It’s lower than Bumgarner’s and it’s even lower than Jesse Orosco.

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          2. For me, former Phil and UT guy, Hoby Milner.

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             1. There’s a lot of Sean Manaea there too.

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40. Got to see Anthony Kay pitch many, many times when he was at UConn. After a year in Japan (?), he seems to have found new ways to stay in the league. Many were surprised when he signed a multi-year contract (2 years ?) with the pale hose. I hope he has a quality start tonight but the Phillies win it late.

    I also hope that we are NOT reading in August that a guy from Philly was arrested for wandering around Saratoga Springs nekked claiming that the natural springs healing powers were going to keep him alive until the Phillies win another World Series. The bailiffs need to be ready in upstate New York.

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41. so the Phillies have been on the wrong side of many lopsided trades. Such as, Sandberg trade, Schilling trade, so is the Cris Sanchez trade the most lopsided trade in Phillies favor? All respect to Carlton trade but Wise did have MLB success.

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    1. Give credit where credit is due….Matt Klentak engineered that deal. Never thought Sanchez would be able to control his FB. In the running fr the Cy Young now.

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    2. Sandberg, Schilling, Jenkins hurt us.

       But we did well with Carlton, Abreu, and Sanchez. So I guess it ain’t all bad.

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    3. It’s crazy that, what looked to be such a horribly bad trade for the team the first couple of years has turned out to be so good. Good for Matt Klentak! The only other trade I’m thinking about that I can compare this too is the Abreu trade – a near HOFer for light hitting middle infielder. As you said, the Schilling and Carlton trades were also fabulous.

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42. Renegades been bet down to 4/5 as of now. He’s not that much better then others and right now doesn’t look like any speed to close into.

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    1. We will have to see…..that longer distance becomes a real factor for most of the field.

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43. Romus – It’s not the longer distance as it is at Belmont Park of a mile and a half. It is at Saratoga so it’s a mile and a quarter because the track is more circular than like an oval at Belmont. That and the Preakness being run at a different track in Maryland make this very far from what we know as the Triple Crown.

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44. Alex McFarlane last night threw 20 pitches, 16 for strikes, and got 6 whiffs. He has a 0.42 ERA and a 1.015 whip.

    https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2062697430450151538

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    1. He has a good slider. Not as good as Chase Burns but close.

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       1. McFarlane also has a plus to plus plus fastball. I think he and Wood could be in the big leagues by September (I know, I sound like Romus!).

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          1. Hah…….ok, maybe McFarlane now that he is 25 years old in a few days….not sure about Wood however……he rarely has thrown many innings per year in the past. And Phillies take their time on pitchers.

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45. leaning now at emerging marker. But could change

    a

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46. Francisco Renteria is how hitting .533/.611/.800. Let me be the first one to say, bring him up!

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    1. He didn’t play yesterday and today? Maybe driving up to philly?

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       1. He played yesterday and today. He’s 17 playing in D league

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          1. ty I look at box scores, what the hell did I miss it?

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    2. He should do well vs DSL pitchers…..at 15 he played briefly in the Ven Major League and faced former MLB pitchers. So the pitching he is facing now probably does not measure up to some he faced last season or prior.

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    3. He’s no Jalvin Arias!

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47. actually the other kid they signed Parra sounds like swings good bat 4-4 other day. Read somewhere with the signing of Korean pitcher some say best international signing class. When has that ever happened for Phil’s.
    Saratoga is lightning fast today. In a 7 furlong race two mates set the track record for 6 furlongs even though 7 furlong race. Horse with tactical speed closer to front may be hard to run down. Then again it always thunder storms up there

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48. 2 mares

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49. Ramon Marquez 5.1 inn. 2 hits. 1 ER. 1 BB.9 Ks. 1.5 era.

    Ferrebus 7th HR . .337

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    1. Two breakout guys. Marquez is really impressive. His K rate is exceptional.

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    2. Marquez’s changeup is easily a plus pitch. It might be plus-plus.

       https://x.com/Prospect_Tilt/status/2063154796446523896?s=20

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       1. Another pitcher who should see Jersey Shore before too long.

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          1. Even though he’s only 20, his numbers at Clearwater are eye-popping. He could probably do 100 innings this season so he’s not that limited by workload. Sounds like he’s working on his slider.

             His fastball is at 92-94 but there’s hope it should tick up once he ages.

             There’s a lot to like here. If his fastball gets to 95-96 with even an average slider, he could easily be a 3/4 starter. But he’s 2-3 years away.

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             1. Reports his head motion in his delivery is unique…..to me, looking at the videos, does not appear anything out of the ordinary.

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             2. Just an FYI you are light on the velo of Ramon’s fastball – he’s 94-96 touching 97 – averages 95. Also the slider is plus. The changeup is plus – it’s his command that is also excellent. When ya see him pitch in person it’s a treat – even last year when he was in the FCL.

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                1. That is good news but if everything is plus, what is he working on?

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                2. ratings of pitches are scouting acumen – that doesn’t mean that he’s a finished product, still needs to garner innings build up, stay healthy (has had shoulder issues in past), refine mix, continue to add strength, improve upon delivery, even improve pitches. When scouts issue reports stating that stuff is plus it’s a subjective opinion of where he’s at and what he could be at higher levels.

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50. Romus hope so. Some bad. Pitching upper levels, Romus I was going to email you. Can y send me the doctor who did your, Hair transplant. Ty

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    1. Dr Guy C……..he is gone now….did Frank Sinatra’s bodyguards in the day.

       https://www.pennsylvaniaburialcompany.com/obituaries/guy-carnabuci

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51. Prospect A:
    -Level: Low A
    -Age: 22
    -IP: 26.1
    -K/9: 13.7
    -BB/9: 4.1
    -WHIP: 1.10
    -HR/9: 0.68
    -BAA: .185
    -Swinging strike %: 16.1%
    -GB%: 53.8%

    Prospect B:
    -Level: Low A
    -Age: 20
    -IP: 24
    -K/9: 15.4
    -BB/9: 2.6
    -WHIP: 0.83
    -HR/9: 0.75
    -BAA: .153
    -Swinging strike %: 25.6%
    -GB%: 47.6%

    Who do you think is better?

    Player A is Gage Wood
    Player B is Ramon Marquez

    This post is not to suggest that Marquez is a better prospect than Wood. Imo Wood’s plus fastball is more important than Ramon’s plus change. But it does show how impressive Ramon’s performance has been. Truly exceptional.

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    1. Just for giggles, Prospect C:
       -Level: Low A
       -Age: 19
       -IP: 38.2
       -K/9: 16.1
       -BB/9: 3.72
       -WHIP: 0.85
       -HR/9: 0.00
       -BAA: .129
       -Swinging strike %: 18.6%
       -GB%: 36.1%

       Prospect C is Andrew Painter. Again not to say that Marquez will reach the prospect status of Painter, but his start is very impressive.

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       1. Wonder what kind of inning limitation he is on this year. He is already almost half-way what he pitched last year-55 IP in 2025.. I assume they will try to get him to 90.

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          1. the targeted innings amount for both Ramon and Gage Wood is roughly 100 IP. Ramon had shoulder issues this spring which is why he got a later start.

             Steve Potter

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             1. Thank you Steve.

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52. Ramon Marquez turned in another DOMINANT outing. His final line: 5.1 IP | 2 H | 2 R | 1 ER | 1 BB | 9 K 78 pitches (55 strikes) 23 WHIFFS!

    https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2063068885067215013

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53. The #Phillies SP — since Don Mattingly took over as manager

    ERA — 2.93 (1st in #MLB)

    IP — 205.2 (2nd)

    BB/9 — 1.97 (1st)

    GB rate — 46.8% (1st)

    FIP — 3.36 (2nd)

    K — 202 (t-2nd)

    K rate — 24.8% (4th)

    K-BB rate — 19.2% (4th)

    Why they are 25-10 in their last 35 games.

    https://x.com/JeffKerrPHL/status/2063245480532770870

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54. Jesus Luzardo’s 2026 Home/Road Splits

    Home: 38.0 IP | 43 H | 31 ER | 7 HR | 12 BB | 40 K | 7.34 ERA | 1.45 WHIP

    Road: 35.0 IP | 33 H | 6 ER | 1 HR | 9 BB | 40 K | 1.54 ERA | 1.20 WHIP

    https://x.com/PhilsTailgate/status/2063282264709161348

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55. Looking at the Phillies offseason, they have about $35M coming off the books (Bohm, Garcia, Alvarado, Sosa, Mayza). However, most of that will be taken up by arbitration raises:

    Duran ~12M

    Stott ~8M

    Marsh ~11M

    Not only that, Luzardo’s extension kicks in and Schwarber’s second year of the contract is higher than the first. Add on Keller and Sanchez’s increase in salaries, that’s an additional $38M!

    Conservatively for 2027, if the Phillies keep all the remaining players, and accounting for some of the replacement players for those that have left, we’re talking about adding $50M+ to the current team salary for 2027!

    There’s no salary relief coming until after 2027 when Wheeler, Stott, Marsh, Duran come off the books (and that’s if none of them get re-signed).

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    1. The luxury tax thresholds and penalties are calculated based on AAV — for example, Schwarber’s contract will have the same Average Annual Value in 2027 as it does in 2026.

       Marsh and Duran will get big arbitration raises.

       Also, Castellanos ($20M) and Walker ($18M) are coming off the books after this year, so that’s another $38M

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       1. Forgot about those guys, but that still means that the Phillies 2027 team salary will still be higher than the current 2026 team. So whatever tax penalties that the Phillies have now, they will have it again for 2027 unless the tax thresholds move up considerably.

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          1. The new CBA , if and when it ever gets done, may have an impact on the financial structure. Assume most salaries, currently on the ledgers, will be grandfathered. The arb cases may have to be massaged somewaht.

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    2. could Stott get non tendered? Is he worth the 8-10 million in arb?

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       1. If the Phillies were willing to give Bohm $10M in his final arbitration season, then it’s a near lock that Stott gets $8M.

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56. Your plans for Painting this season?

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57. His stuff is better than his record and results. Gonna have to fight through it and mature. Needs to get a little mean streak. He’s 6’7” gotta start acting like it

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58. Renteria went 1-2 with a triple, BB, RBI. Up to .529 ave, 1.518 ops. That’s his 3rd triple on the season already.

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    1. I really hope that he comes stateside soon and gets challenged by better pitching. I expect they will do so this summer. I was actually surprised that he didn’t start the year In Clearwater.

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       1. once again – there are no plans to bring Renteria stateside this season – he will be in Clearwater next season. That is not my opinion – it is the plan.

          Steve Potter

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          1. I understand that’s the plan. I hope the plan changes because of his performance. That happens often with prospects and I hope that it happens with FR

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          2. Steve wonder if it’s more his age, coming here different culture, maybe they feel another yr. Of him maturing would make transition easier .

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             1. there are multiple reasons. If he comes stateside his bonus is subject to taxes – the level of play between the DSL and the FCL is not that big a gap so it doesn’t hinder his development to play there in his first season. He is not ready to play full season baseball yet (Low A). Regardless of what folks external to the organization think there is a strong development plan for him that also protects his financial well being. It’s really that simple – so folks can hope all they want – he’s gonna play in the DSL this season – regardless of how he performs.

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                1. I can also add that the FCL season ends on 7/20 whereas the DSL goes till 8/18 – there are simply more games available to be played at this moment in the DSL – also the team is decent – there’s great pride in the Dominican Academies on winning the DSL title – if this group of Phillies which is a strong group can do so that is another factor in development as it bonds them as a champion. The kid is also just 17 years old and won’t be 18 till January – let him enjoy life this season as big man on campus, keep his money and learn team camaraderie. Protect the Standard has many meanings.

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                2. For those of you who don’t know that “Protect the Standard” has meaning within the Phillies’ organization, here is a link to an article Steve published that explains “Protect the Standard“.
                   https://www.philliesbaseballfan.com/post/10-29-22-protect-the-standard

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59. C.Sanchez trade appears a steal, and it’s surely a huge loss to TB who included Mead in a ‘25 mid season trade to ChiSox.  He then failed to make ‘26 roster and was DFA’d.   ChiSox traded him to Nationals for peanuts on March 28. 

    Mead finally appears to be breaking out.  He’d been earning more PT, then couple weeks ago became regular 3B when House was sent back to minors. 

    176 PA

    .845 OPS

    9 hr, 29 rbi, 28 r

    Career highs:

    13.6% bb

    17.0% k

    89.5 EV avg

    10.0% barrel %

    45.8% hardhit%

    …all with career low .252 BABIP

    If only the Phillies had taken a chance on him instead of Nats.   We might have had our future 3B!  And it “could” have had a chance to complete an epic story we’d be talking about for ages!  

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60. in under the impression the Phillies need 2 bats. Wondering if DD goes for it … Ward & Moniak + Skubal… and promotes one of the young bullpen arms

    Will shall see. Skubal is likely a stretch but who knows, once they see the price of ward, the though process might be to empty the cupboard. Normally I’d say probably not, but If wheeler really is retiring… it’s a good hedge move

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    1. question?… if there is a strike/lockout in 2027 will there still be minor league baseball?……if so I would not empty the cupboard now, but let’s are prospects grow in 2027……they should only be more valuable in 2028.

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       1. that’s the argument …. The best shot might just be right now with Wheeler’s last year. Dodgers going for a 3 peat, pretty tough to pull off. Well we’re going to find out. Probably not all 3+ the BP promotion… maybe 2 of the 3, just one and I I’m not sure that’s enough

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       2. There was some early conjecture that the minor league players would not “cross the picket line”. However, there has been recent concern that not honoring their agreement would jeopardize everything they have accomplished to date regarding getting their own CBA.

          Which brings us to spring training. Do the owners cancel spring training schedules and lose that money, or do they play grapefruit and cactus league games with minor leaguers? What do you think?

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          1. I would think that if the minor league players do cross the picket line (I hope they don’t, but understand if they do), Spring Training would be played with minor leaguers, too.

             The owners would essentially just be bumping everyone up a level, so AAA would be the new major league team. And the owners playing a full spring slate with minor leaguers would be a pretty strong negotiating tool to show the ML players that they really do have other options ready to go.

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             1. Will Harper be the unofficial spokesmen for the rank and file? ....Get the eff outta here!

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          2. my two cents – owners definitely have spring training. 1) it makes them money. 2) it puts up a good front, whether genuine or not. It keeps local businesses & employees from saying negative things, or should at least limit them some. The can play the “hope” card.

             I personally will be very shocked if the season is not cancelled. They are negotiating a lot of money, it’s gonna close it down. I suggest picking a local highschool and little league team to support

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          3. I’m expecting no baseball to start the 2027 season….

             I really wish there was a way to understand the complete math or financials of operating an MLB franchise total revenue vs. expenses like you might find in an SEC filing.

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61. rocco….so what did you think of Nola today?

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62. I am starting a fan club, I hate Aaron Nola. 5.00 to join you get a patch and hate saying I Hate Nola.

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    1. The membership fee should be the same as his ERA. So people who join today pay $5.86, but if they wait it might go over $6.

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    2. He needs to do something….change something up.

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       1. Romus it easy, He should retire

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63. Clearwater is our minor league team winning any games. Humphrey with a monster game today. 4-4 with 2 homers and 5 RBIs.

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    1. https://www.milb.com/clearwater/video/nathan-humphreys-homers-6-on-a-line-drive-to-left-field?t=t566-default-vtp

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64. Time to take Nola and Painter out of the rotation. You ask, “Who the hell will replace them?” You already have Stubbs there. Bring back Dylan Moore. Or better yet, make a trade with the Angels for….TyWin Walker.

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    1. When waiting Painter’s outing, it seemed like he was dropping his arm slot a little and getting more movement on his pitches. Perhaps Painter can work on that?

       Anyways, I would bring down Painter for Rangel right now.

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       1. He definitely needs to come up with something that increases the movement on his FB. I’m not a pitching guru so not sure how that is done but even though the velo is there it is too darn straight.

          I imagine it is grips or arm slot and I imagine changing arm slots is more difficult in season to tinker with.

          Its such a weird thing. We lament Nola because the loss in his velo yet Andrew seems to have plenty but still suffers the same fate.

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          1. Nola and Painter…124 IP….24 HRs allowed….their FIP is over 4 for a reason.

             I would put Luzardo between them and have Banks open for both of them.

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             1. I wonder if Luzardo will ever find consistency. Great at times really bad at times. Cotham has his hands full.

                What’s strange about Luzardo is I can see him make some really good pitches and still get hit hard on those pitches. I know the whole “tipping” thing but can it really just be that.

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    2. ……. agghhh🎵”Send in the Clowns”🎶🤡

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    3. Walker opted out of his minor league deal with the Angels today and is a free agent once more. Even the Angels didn’t think it was worth calling him up.

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65. Let’s take a moment break from complaining about all that is wrong to highlight a big win within the team (and DD’s legacy here), Brandon Marsh.

    When he came over from the Angels, he looked lost at the plate. Sub .700 OPS and a 35% K rate. Great athlete, but a complete mess at the plate.

    Step 1 was fix this swing against RHP. KLong (who get’s unfairly bashed on here imo), made major adjustments to quiet the swing with fewer lower half movements. That worked well. In his first full season with the Phillies 2023, he was great against RHP, .292/.387/.477/.864. 13% walk rate and 28% K rate. the swing adjustments helped him see the ball much better and be on time. This season he has a .925 OPS against RHP.

    This season, he has finally made huge strides against LHP. His line against LHP this year is: .294/.327/.451/.778. Yes that is aided by a .424 BABIP (so some luck) and a poor walk rate against LHP of only 3.6%. But he had an 11.4% walk rate against LHP last year, so he can take walks. Yesterday he had an exceptional AB against a LHP who is 6’8″, driving a line drive single 96 MPH oppo for an RBI. Imo, having an oppo approach against LHP is the biggest adjustment that has helped him against LHP.

    He currently leads MLB in batting average. Has become an every day player. And he has a legitimate chance to be an All-Star this season. At only 28yo he is in his prime years. So we can potentially see this type of production for a while.

    Big organizational win from the top down. Great job by DD. Great job by KLong. Great job by the player. This is exactly the kind of story that we all want out of an organization. So let’s take a break from complaining about right field and celebrate a huge win in right field.

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    1. The big difference I’m seeing is that he’s just making contact and not forcing anything (trying to pull it or try to go the other way). With his power, the ball is going places. Also, there was an interesting article on MLB about him having the perfect hitting angle to hit balls over the infield but before the OFs.

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66. Remember when the Cubs were on fire and ripped the Phillies? The Cubs now have a worse record. The crazy thing is that 8/9 hitting starters are at least 1 WAR! But the flip side it that ALL of the pitching starters are negative WAR! How is that even possible?

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    1. Ben Brown (traded by Phils for a rental reliever) is having a really good season

       https://www.fangraphs.com/players/ben-brown/23590/stats/pitching

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       1. Ben Brown always had a good arm and it seemed like just a matter of time before he became a good major league pitcher. Nice to see.

          The guy right now whose arm I love is Jonathan Bowlan – he’s a late bloomer, but that fastball has so much life that it’s crazy – kind of the opposite of Andrew Painter who, for whatever reason, throws hard but is easy to hit.

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          1. Bowlan might have been a big find…

             https://x.com/Cory_Nidoh/status/2064061397273559436?s=20

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       2. That is what you can get when you give up 1HR in 57 IP (FIP 2.3)…..and batted ball of only. 231 …he has definitely come around.

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67. Ramon Marquez rated 4th best pitching prospect by whoever these guys are,

    https://x.com/StatlineScout/status/2063739621721481654

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    1. That’s high praise, considering the first 2 guys are both top 10 on Pipeline and the 3rd is #69. That means Marquez should be top 100 right now.

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       1. He is soooooo getting traded at the deadline – as good as gone as far as I’m concerned.

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    2. Looks like the Mariners are loaded with three pitchers in that top ten.

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       1. Means nothing Painter , abel ere high rated

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          1. Thus the term, TINSTAAPP.

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68. if interested – https://www.philliesbaseballfan.com/post/6-8-26-former-phillies-in-other-mlb-organizations-update

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69. The real challenge for making a big move or two at the deadline is that our prospects/players that previously had value to other teams have mostly trended down – Painter, Crawford, A Miller – all have less value today than 1+ year ago. Marchan, Rojas, Bohm, and Kemp probably have zero value. Garcia and Nola certainly have negative value. I don’t think any of the above names should be used for trades because even with the first three, we’d be selling low.

    So it then comes down to what value do Reyes, Rincones, MacFarlane, Wood, Marquez, Rincon, Escobar, Anthony, etc have. I think to get Skubal, and I’m not even sure the Phillies can outbid a few other teams, you’d have to start with Luzardo, Wood, and A Miller, plus a few other pieces.

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    1. You have to give talent to get talent. If I was the opposing GM, I’m targeting Wood, Marquez, Miller, Painter in that order of preference.

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       1. The order of talent sounds about right. Miller and Painter are both devalued right now, although for different reasons.

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    2. Well said!

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    3. Without a cap JM wasn’t willing to go too far over the LT so with a cap I can’t imagine how they will remain competitive in the coming years without young talent to plug the holes.

       Just my opinion but Skubal on this team is high risk low reward and again ignores the real problem with this teams recent failures in the playoffs which is offense.

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70. And while y’all debate getting Skubal, the Angels released Taijuan Walker. He’s a free agent again, folks.

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    1. If even the Angels don’t want you, you’re running out of options.

       I think the Twins and Marlins might be the only teams in baseball willing to give him a spot on the MLB roster right now.

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71. https://x.com/i/status/2064123630980669628

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    1. He’s got a future I believe it….

       As Kruk would say that one had some hair on it…

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       1. Never even heard of Florida Southwestern Collège of Ft Myers….but if you have talent they will find you.

          https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=gair–000mar

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          1. Guessing he had TJ because we drafted him in 2023 and he didn’t pitch in 24. 25 he was at CLW and 26 still at CLW.

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             1. Yes I think you are correct…. Phillies medical people may have set him for TJ shortly after bring drafted and signing with the organization…..I believe that is when he had it done….2023.

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          2. Romus, didn’t Jim go to that college?

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72. the potential emergence of Marsh had changed the deadline additions, potentially has saved some of our prospects. I was under the impression that the team needed 2 bats….. possibly even 3. Now… if Stott, Bohm or Garcia could follow suit … it’d be really nice. Then we can start getting a peak at some of these BP arms. Looks like there is a a few the FO could rush, much like kerkering to surprise the league.

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    1. I’m not sure which relievers that you want to replace. Duran, Keller, Kerkering, Alvarado, Mayza are not going anywhere. Banks is now the long man. Bowlan has no options and Shugart has been very good.

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       1. Agreed our bullpen is a strength. And we have depth in the minor leagues for our pen. we might even be able to be sellers with our pen at the deadline.

          What we need badly is starting pitching depth. Not only because Painter and Nola have been bad. But Painter is definitely on a pitch limit. He has never thrown more than 118 innings (1,850 pitches). As of early June he is already at 58 IP and (1,007 pitches). So he is going to be shut down at some point before the season ends. I don’t know what the innings limit plan is, but it doesn’t seem likely that Painter will be available to pitch in September/October for us.

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          1. Yeah, I’m going to be a contrarian but I still don’t see it this way. The biggest issue, by far, will be the hitting – it’s not even close.

             First, I actually believe Painter has good stuff and will come around – it may take a little while, but I think the ability is there. As for Nola, he may bounce back or he may not, but between the two of them, I expect things to be okay for the #4 spot and for the five they will scramble like basically every team other than the Dodgers does.

             But, for the playoffs (and I expect they will make the playoffs), what are we talking about? We are talking about a 4th starter who, at most, will start 2 games in all of the playoffs if this team goes to a WS. With the strength of this BP, the 4th starter is unlikely to be what moves the needle here. As for the hitting, it’s been a bit better, but continues to be relatively anemic after the top 3 hitters. Any significant upgrade would allow the team to improve its chances in every postseason game and what we do know is that the reason the team was eliminated in the last 3 postseasons was hitting problems – like a toothache that doesn’t go away. So, as in 2023, 2024, 2025, I think the potential problem for the postseason remains the hitting and that’s where I would upgrade.

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             1. Exactly. Painter isn’t starting a playoff game. Heck, he probably won’t be on the playoff roster (unless he really turns around his season).

                Absent injuries, the team will rely on Sanchez, Wheeler and Luzardo in the playoffs, with Nola potentially getting a start or two (unless they decide to go with a bullpen game).

                Injuries are a real risk with pitchers, of course. The worst is if the injury happens in August or September — like Wheeler’s injury last year — because it’s past the trade deadline and you can’t make a move to shore up the rotation.

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             2. Sure. I didn’t say that we should not upgrade the offense.

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                1. I think DD has to do both. I’m not sure how he’s gonna do it … but let me speculate on 2 players.

                   Skubal. He’s gonna get a chance to make an offer. Why? He overpays, or at least that’s the perception. He does offer up top prospects. 2) he has history with Detroit. 3) Phillies are in the NL. DET doesn’t want to see Seattle with Skubal.

                   what would it take? A lot, but … I think Stott could be available. He’s got till the deadline. His defense is awesome at 2nd, but that bat has to come alive. Arraez could be the move to replace Stott.. or Harper goes back out to RF.

                   will see but I can see a mid tier upgrade for the offense with a big splash for the rotation at this point in the season. If that did happen… I’d think Luzardo could come out of the pen. You really have a lot of weapons to help you win a 2-1 game or a 1-0 game … with Sanchez, Wheeler, and Skubal very likely being available out of the pen to throw an inning .. it’s still gotta be an upgrade even with this bullpen.

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73. if I was running Phil’s I’d be looking for a starter swingman type older established pitcher like a Scherzer type. Not afraid to pitch in big spot give me start or come in for inning or two. Secondary a good bench bat if they exist anymore. I think Painter will be better second half but not elite like till they remake him. When I watched Glasnow pitch for dodgers I was thinking that’s what Painter needs to do. Painter so stiff and mechanical and seems to throw down rather than get that long extension like good tall pitchers do now. I think Painter can have better secondary stuff than Glasnow but needs to throw with less drop like Wheeler.
    when they moved Gage Wood up that seemed to me like they may be showcasing for trade. When I see him next to other players barely looks 5 10”. Seems like max effort thrower. Not sure those guys at that height last real long but could be wrong.

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    1. Stroman, and Sonny Gray are two shorties that come to mind. They are out there….but they have to be exceptional….Tim Lincecum from 15 years or so back was another.

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    2. Most shorter power pitchers do not last long – they throw their arms out by their late 20s or early 30s. That said, many of these guys achieve success quickly. To me, Gage Wood is very much in play this fall, especially if he continues to succeed at AA. The stuff appears to truly be excellent.

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74.  like a toothache that doesn’t go away. So, as in 2023, 2024, 2025, I think the potential problem for the postseason remains the hitting and that’s where I would upgrade.…….and so may need a root canal in July.

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75. There are approximately 20 teams with better prospects in their minor leagues than the Phils. Would love to get better hitting 3b and 2b. Many of these teams are in playoff hunt. Seriously doubt Phil’s will be able to outbid most teams for what they really need to greatly improve offense. At this point need to hope minor leaguers develop to fill in these positions in coming years. If Phil’s could even put together a package for a Taylor Ward there is no guarantee he will hit better in playoffs than Garcia. Garcia had great playoffs few years ago. Has Taylor Ward ever played in playoffs. I assume maybe long time ago if with Angels and might have been just couple games

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    1. Taylor Ward never appeared in any play-off games….started with the Angels in 2018. But sometimes those guys are hungrier and may hit better than expected.

       https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wardta01.shtml

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       1. I can’t see giving up a lot for Ward. A infield prospect and maybe a Anthony type toos

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76. For those interested…Steve Potter makes a detailed analytical comparison between the old Andrew Painter and the new Andrew Painter…and what could be some reasons for the struggles he is incurring now.

    https://www.philliesbaseballfan.com/post/6-9-26-comparing-painters

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    1. i read most of the article… what i’d like to know is the comparison from his 1st start vs now? Was his FB this flat in his 1st MLB start? If I recall, he was pretty impressive that day … so what is the difference from then vs now? He’s not a one pitch wonder. I know the league will catch up to a player, and they need to make adjustments… but its hard to see that success at the mlb level and think he’s still not developing… i gotta believe he can make the adjustment.

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77. I just saw Santachez over last 40 starts 2.23 era and 227 strike outs. Wiw

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78. Romus you are a jinx, buckholder is 7-43 sice your talked about him

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    1. I need to reverse jinx him somehow.

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       1. You need a goats tail, two marbles, a box of cracker jackss, three candles. And a twinkle 🤩

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       2. the goats tail worked. 2- 4 to tonight.

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79. “If he keeps this up, I don’t think he’ll be in Double-A much longer” – Dave Dombrowski on Alex McFarlane on the

    @SportsRadioWIP pregame show

    https://x.com/ArcainiLuke/status/2064479101390291041

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80. Spiderman didn’t come to the rescue but it’s not like he got pounded. There were a couple of seeing eye hits. You can’t save them all.

    If the Phillies don’t win almost all of the games Sanchez and Wheeler pitch, they are going to have a hard time getting a wild card spot.

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    1. I think if they hit enough, they will be fine. Luzardo’s performance should improve, they’ve got a great bullpen and, as I said, between Nola and Painter, one of them should rise to the occasion. Also, I expect DD to add a bat and another starting arm by the deadline, the bat being far more important for reasons I previously laid out. And, again, I think there’s a very good chance that Wood ends up on the Phillies in September – right now, he’s on track for that promotion and should be promoted on that timeline if he performs as well in AAA as he has in AA and, of course, stays healthy. To me, they are clearly limiting his innings with an eye toward a late season promotion. I guess we’ll see.

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       1. is that you don? So positive

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          1. I think the pitching will be fine. It will all be about the hitting – I’m very skeptical that they will acquire/develop enough hitting to contend for a WS. Right now, they don’t have what they need on offense in my opinion.

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81. Old OC – I think in Wood’s case if you see him get a promotion to AAA, the Phillies could utilize him (if he does well at Lehigh) in the bigs. I believe, however, that if they keep him in AA until the trade deadline that they are showcasing him for a trade. If he goes to AAA and gets knocked around, his trade value tumbles.

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    1. Would you trade Wood for Ward?

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       1. Oh my goodness, no way!

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          1. Lets hope DD has his wits about him come July.

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       2. its not a full yes, but its not a full no either. They need to do something offensively … even if it’s just for morale. Sanchez & Wheeler alone can win you a 7 game series, Certainly a 5 GM or 3 GM.

          How different is the league going to be after the upcoiming CBA? It might change significantly, that it emphasizes rebuilds vs building through FA due to a hard cap. We don’t know, but the FO needs to. It might be the last chance to be this close. Get a bat + a substainial SR arm.

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82. Never

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83. Johan Rojas out for season with elbow surgery

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84. Kiley McDaniel of ESPN has released his updated Top 10 Phillies Prospects list:

    1. SS Aidan Miller

    2. RHP Gage Wood

    3. OF Gabriel Rincones Jr.

    4. OF Dante Nori

    5. 2B Aroon Escobar

    6. OF Francisco Renteria

    7. OF Griffin Burkholder

    8. RHP Matthew Fisher

    9. RHP Ramon Marquez

    10. LHP Cade Obermueller

    https://x.com/PhilsTailgate/status/2064746914768179380

    How does Rincones Jr get ranked that high? No Rincon or Ferrebus is surprising.

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    1. Looks like he’s prioritizing proximity since the top 5 are at AA or higher. Even though Rincon is only 22, he has 3 full years of not performing so maybe he wants to see him hit for another year. Ferrebus can hit but he has way more value if he can stay at catcher. The hitting bar is considerably higher for 1B/DH (the other positions that Ferrebus has played at in his career).

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    2. Not impressed, ……. that’s all we got!

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       1. Dam old you sound like my wife, on our honeymoon

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    3. There’s some potential here, but overall, pretty lame.

       For decades we’ve been promised a rejuvenated and better farm system. We still produce some good players here and there, but overall, it’s not a great system and I don’t expect that to change anytime soon. After all these years, the Phillies have finally beaten me down and convinced me to permanently lower my expectations. Not kidding.

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       1. Phillies are almost always picking late and now with the tax penalties, the first round pick is going into the 30s. It won’t get much better.

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    4. My list:

       1. Aidan Miller

       2. Gage Wood

       3. Francisco Renteria

       4. Griffin Burkholder

       5. Ramon Marquez

       6. Alex McFarlane

       7. Chan-Min Park

       8. Dante Nori

       9. Aroon Escobar

       10a. Cade Obermueller

       10b. Alirio Ferrebus

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       1. I think Romeli Espinosa and Renteria will go hand in hand as they progress thru the system….Espinosa as the ss and Renteria as the CF. Espinosa may have been a pretty good signing for $250K.

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          1. He almost made my list. Very intrigued by Romeli

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    5. Matt Fisher being in top 10 is insane.

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       1. 1. MLB disagrees with you. https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/phillies/

          2. Our system is pretty weak. GRJ is ranked as our 3rd best prospect is insane. At best, he is a platoon OF. But he isn’t even the best platoon OF in Scranton. He is a AAAA player.

          3. Fisher is an exceptional athlete with a great pitchers body. They paid him second round money. The same amount they just paid Chan-Min Park. You think it insane that he is in my top 10?

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85. I’ve watched Ferrebus a couple times behind plate and in my non professional opinion I do not think he’s gonna stick at catcher. Some guys are just naturally good behind plate. Not sure he’s got the reflexes. Hopefully can play LF.

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    1. I’ve seen him behind the plate at least 25 games including in person and he will be fine. Has the tools to stick there, is he gonna win a gold glove, perhaps not but has all the attributes to remain a catcher as he progresses.

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86. good to hear. I hope I’m wrong. Lord knows Phil’s need some catchers in pipeline

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87. Wen-Hui Pan is another interesting prospect, I know it’s only been 10 innings so small sample size but his 0.60 WHIP at JS is impressive. Will be interesting to see how he handles Reading when he moves up.

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88. Max Sczher.reminds me of Jake Arrieta at the end of his career.

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89. kid catching for Toronto tonight was born a catcher.

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90. Griffin Burkholder launches one 410 feet for his fourth home run of the season for Clearwater, this one hit at 105 mph.

    https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2064856714357203000

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91. Brandon Tucker. 6inn. 1ER . 3 BB. 6 Ks. For Reading.

    1.26 ERA in 9 starts

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92. https://x.com/i/status/2064892926019121505

    Keaton Anthony

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    1. That kid rakes. And it looks like he may have figured out how to hit homers (ie backspin baseballs) this offseason.

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93. Garcia injured his shoulder and Reyes just his 14th HR…. ???????????

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94. Keaton Anthony is one of the 9 best hitters in the Phillies organization. Big league club included.

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    1. Damn he found his power, I’m guessing Reyes has to come up regarding Garcia ‘s injury.

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       1. Let’s keep it real on Reyes. He has huge plate discipline issues, which massively depress his value as a hitter and projections particularly as a major league hitter. If he continues to swing at a lot of bad pitches, major league hitters will eat him alive like they did during his first stint in the big leagues. I’m not writing him off by any means, but it’s a big, big problem. By comparison, Anthony is such a good fundamental hitter, that I think his path forward could be much easier in the big leagues.

          Let me just comment on one thing the Phillies are doing exceptionally well. And that’s finding undrafted hitters. You have Anthony and Kemp and now Humphreys. That’s some pretty damned fine work there whoever it is that is locating and signing these guys.

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          1. Major league pitchers will eat him alive that is.

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    2. Irrational fan scenario that will never happen but I still would love to see it…Harper goes to RF and Keaton comes up to play 1B.

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       1. Maybe Harper to LF, and then Marsh moves over to RF.

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          1. That’s pretty interesting – I always wondered why Harper wasn’t put in left field and I think the answer is that he wasn’t the worst outfielder in the group (back then anyway), so he was put in a more premium spot. It would be fun to see what Anthony could do. I think he has a future as a major league hitter and, my God, this team could use a further shot in the arm from a hitting standpoint.

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          2. sure. left or right works for me.

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             1. Well…if you are putting Harper in LF… can Anthony not play a better LF than Schwarber? The guy needs to start shagging some fly balls out there.

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                1. I think in the above scenarios, Anthony plays first and Schwarber stays out of harms way as the DH – you don’t want Schwarber on the field more than a handful of games each year. No way.

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                2. Good question. Honestly. I have no idea.

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95. Romus. Your comparison of Mad Max and Arrieta is pretty good. Back when the Phillies played the Cubs, they showed the winning streak that Arrieta had for the Cubs. Very impressive. It was like 20 games in a row or such. I took a pick and have it in my phone.

    I do have a question for you. The other night T Mac kept showing the number of hot dogs sold that game. Last, I remember it was around 86,000. That is unreal. So, I asked Ruff if by chance you and Rocco had got across the border and were eating all of those hot dogs. He had a very funny response.

    My son is taking the kid to the game tomorrow night in Milwaukee. They play travel ball up around there this weekend. Seats are behind the Phillies dugout. Not sure exact location. They were right by the dugout in Cincy last year.

    Why Harper to LF and Marsh to RF? I think I want my best guy in LF with Painter and Nola next in line in the rotation.

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    1. Last time I was in canada I surprised my wife on her birthday with a trip.She surprise d me when we came home she was pregnant 29 yrs ago

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       1. Congrats Rocco. A trip to remember

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          1. rocco…….enjoyed the Beaver Tail

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             1. 😅🤣😂 I miss John Pinette ……. skating for the “beaver tail” …… oh he’ll stop!

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96. Alec Bohm this season:

    March & April 106 AB | 16 H | 1 HR | 13 RBI | 8 BB | 20 K | .151/.218/.208 | .426 OPS

    May & June 129 AB | 37 H | 7 HR | 21 RBI | 10 BB | 17 K | .287/.338/.496 | .834 OPS

    https://x.com/PhilsTailgate/status/2065060229025538355

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    1. I like those numbers. If He can stay there… and Turner can get back going. This offense is not as bad as most have stated/feared. From there… you’d have some potential growth from Stott & a rested Realmuto. Garcia hurts… but you can make a trade or potentially see Reyes or Keaton Anthony until the deadline. Make the decision from there. I’d still get a bat knowing this team can go cold in the playoffs.

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    2. I think both Bohm and Stott will get their BAs up to close .260 before the year is out……for Bohm, it would behoove him if he wants to cash in on very good free agent signing.

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97. They said last night that his 34 rbis are now 3rd most on the team. Hopefully he continues to produce. They badly need some pop from the right side. I do not think going to see much from JT going forward. He does not even have good at bats much of the time. Turner is a total wild card. He simply swings at so many non-strikes. Sosa when he plays of late has also been really bad.

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98. The Phillies role into Milwaukee with Nola and Painter starting the first two games. Does that scare anybody on this site? Don’t get me wrong. I’m a big fan of both of those guys but if they get clobbered by a really good Brew Crew, that puts a lot of pressure on Sanchez to salvage a game and not get swept. I’ll say one thing about this season. It’s a really interesting one.

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    1. not me I am betting Brewers

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99. I have two potential trade scenarios I wouldn’t mind seeing happen.

    1. We trade for Matt Chapman. I’m not sure what the price would be, but it would allow Bohm to slide over to first and then bump Harper into the outfield for the final couple of months.
    2. Aaron Nola for Brandon Nimmo. I’m pretty sure Nola enjoys being in Philly, but I have to think going down to Texas would put him significantly closer to Louisiana and he would approve that trade. The money isn’t perfect, but Middleton can make that work.

    While I don’t like the idea of doubling down on guys entering their mid-30s, I really don’t see much in the way of young talent coming up to be the next wave. In the first scenario, I see Chapman’s floor as Bohm’s ceiling going forward, and bumping Harper to LF for a couple of months shouldn’t pose too much of an issue. With Nimmo, I know he’s not perfect, but man, he’s just a pain in the ass when he plays against us. Might as well see if he likes hitting in CBP for 81 games.

    I don’t see either one of these trades costing us too much in prospect depth, but at this point, I think Renteria is the only guy I wouldn’t want to move.

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    1. If the Phillies got Nimmo….Mets Nation would explode.

       Al those central NJ Met fans from Mercer, Middlesex, Ocean and Union counties….who storm down every time to CBP when the Mets are in town….would flip out.

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    2. Hard pass on Chapman for me. He’s 33, under contract thru his age 37 season, due about $25M/year, has fewer HRs than Bohm (8-7), more errors at 3B than Bohm (8-3), plus Bohm has finally been hitting like his old self. Plus, I don’t want to see Harper in the outfield for even 2 months. I don’t think he would want to either. When he offered to return to RF that was when he wanted the team to pursue Alonso. Chapman’s no Alonso.

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       1. I hear ya Jim. The age is the main factor for me not liking Chapman. But even though he has fewer homers than Bohm, he does have more XBH (28-17), is the third highest rated dWAR player, and does carry a significantly higher WAR (2.8 to -0.4), despite more errors. And I do feel like Bohm will continue to hit for the rest of the season, that’s why I’m keeping him around.

          Even though Harper might be atrocious in LF (even for two months), he can’t be any worse than Pat Burrell or Raul Ibanez and those teams did just fine. I think if Harper knew he’d be getting more protection in the lineup, he would gladly move out there for 2 months.

          This team has had no outfield for the last 5 years. I’d like to see something done…, not just Derek Hill. I want to see Trader Dave pull off something great. But I just don’t know what’s available outside of Taylor Ward.

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100. So we made a trade for a guy with a -0.1 WAR this season and total WAR of +0.8 over 7 seasons. Your move DODGERS!!!!

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     1. So we got a guy who can play OF. This makes me think A. Garcia might be hurt worse than the Phillies have been letting on. Neither of the guys we gave up are prospects so I’m thinking DD just wanted a competent defensive outfielder on the bench while Garcia is out.

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        1. He’s a platoon/bench bat. He hits LHP well .780 OPS and plays good defense. It was a good trade for a 4th OF/bench player.

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     2. .789 OPS against lefties this year

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101. Jose Colmenares…..not sure I ever saw his name in the Philly org minor league system.

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     1. could he be the next liu Gerhig

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102. No Rincones in the Pigs lineup tonight…….are we getting a Rincones/Hill platoon in RF because Garcia’s injury is not good?

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103. Ferrebus 3-4. 18th dbl. .339 avg

     Gage wood 3 inn. 4 hits. 2 ER. 2 BB. 5 Ks.

     58 pitches.

     Seems to throw a high number of pitches per inning the last 3-4 games . Is it control? Pitch selection? Or youth??

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     1. The Clearwater box score has a lot of good news tonight.
        1. As you mentioned Ferrebus had a good night. Kid can rake. Hopefully he can become a good defender at catcher too. A .938 OPS as a 20yo is impressive.
        2. Obermueller with 3 shut out innings. 4 Ks. He is a very intriguing arm. That arm slot is nasty.
        3. Gair struck out the side in 1 IP. He throws 100+. Only given up 11 hits in 21 IP. If he can cut down on his 12 walks he would be a legit power arm reliever.
        4. Gabe Craig with a scoreless IP too. His K/IP ratio is really impressive. 33 Ks in 22 IP.

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        1. Cade is nasty. https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2065239102341939493?s=20

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           1. He was a starter at Iowa his last two years, and did well vs Big Ten batters in his jr and last year there….assume they will look to move him up to JS before the season is out. Turns 23 years old in July.

              https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=obermu000cad

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              1. I see his floor as a high leverage reliever with that stuff and arm angle. I saw recently his slider was graded at 60. but hopefully he can stick as a starter.

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104. The Steve that writes reports about the Phil’s minor leagues is asking for some help regarding a family member on his daily report page. Longshot someone may know someone in the area they are seeking help

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     1. Yeah. I saw that. Sad. Hope all works out well. Sending my best wishes.

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105. Test

     Posting from a new device

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106. Romus. You brought up Arrieta yesterday. Here is the run he had for Cubs. August 4, 2015, till May 31st, 2016. 23 starts, 20-0 record, ERA 0.94, 163.1 innings, 164 Ks, 39 walks, .147 oba. He hit 2 home runs. Allowed 4 HRs. Do you think anyone else has ever done something like this? Wow. Pretty amazing. Then he signed with the Phillies.

     Bold prediction for tonight. Schwarber hits Scharbomb on Misiorowski tonight. My son and grandson at game. Might get to see a new record pitch. Has to top I think 103.7 from last start.

     As someone mentioned above may be tough to win this series. Painter and Nola. Also saw on a rain delay last night that ended a postponed game. White Sox are 18-3 in last 21 games at home. They won the first 2 vs Braves. Nice Phillies got them at home and were able to get a series win. They have won 7 straight series at home. Team that kind of looks like it has a future.

     Ruff passed on to me that Wood had an average start last night for Reading. Kind of mediocre numbers. Has anyone been able to get to Reading and see a game he has started? I asked Ruff and he said not yet.

     Saw a test above. Seems my issue for the moment has been resolved. I think this is two weeks now that I have been able to get on and read and post. That is a record for me this spring.

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107. Mitch Rupert is the best twitter follow if you like Phillies prospects. he always has great video and metrics. in this post he shows that Alirio Ferrebus had 3 hits last night over 106 EV. Including turning around a 97.8 mph pitch to produce 106.9. Personally, I think that I will rank Ferrebus over Norri (and definitely over GRJ) in my year end prospect rankings. That kid can rake. Would be so great if he could stick behind the plate. Our system badly needs catching prospects.

     https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2065419047114596612?s=20

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     1. Will want to see how he will do at JS. The initial transition for many in the past, has been a struggle until they are able to adjust.

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108. Matthew Fisher on a roll: https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2065145505231810756

     Maybe they’ll move him to Clearwater soon

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     1. Matthew Fisher is only 20, has pitched only 16.2 innings and he’s walking 4.9 per game. His ERA is almost 5. He’s perfectly fine where he is. There’s absolutely no rush with Fisher.

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109. Rincones is called up…. Berroa is on paternity leave…

     Derek Hill has reported to team

     Garcia goes on 60 day DL

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110. Gabriel Rincones in his debut gets to face Misiorowski. Don’t worry, Gabriel, they don’t all throw this hard!

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     1. Hey kid. You ever seen 104 mph before ???

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111. Keaton Anthony goes yard fir the third time in a week . Now at .313.. Is he trade bait since he is basically 1B/DH and is completely blocked ???

     also renteria another multi hit game. .375 SSS IN 8 GAMES

     Reyes plunked inLHV . Gets ejected for going after pitcher. Skipper gets tossed too.

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112. if I were asked to rank worst contracts on Phils. Easy pick for me Trea Turner. Where do you hide a bad fielder that can’t hit a fastball. That has to start his swing early for fastballs which makes him look silly on sliders

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     1. Worst contracts. In History Turner, Nola,, Realmuto . Paying 71 million a yr, with no production. But DD keeps his job

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        1. rocco…….Phillies do have a collectible amount of forward- looking bad contracts. Maybe the CBA coming up will address that issue and give teams, like in the NHL, to buy out bad contracts and absorb the cap hits spread over years down the road.

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113. Things almost erupted in Scranton as the two managers got into it, Reyes was pissed after he got hit. Benches cleared,

     https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2065590869936222385

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114. Tonight’s game was a preview of the Phillies offense in the playoffs, when they’ll face the top starting pitchers in the league. No bueno.

     Misiorowski has been great all year. But the Phillies offense had the worst performance against him of any team he’s faced.

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     1. We also tagged Skenes for 5 runs in 5 innings in his worst start of the year so far.

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     2. I have never seen more dominant stuff from a starting pitcher in my lifetime (I am 50). Just unbelievable. His extension is unparalleled which makes his 104 look faster if possible. I give them a pass for tonight. The next two games are they tell. Hope they win both.

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        1. Steve Carlton. Quote from Willie Stargell hitting Carlton is like eating soup with a fork. Bob Gibson 1.12 era for the season. Any game Sandy koufax pitch. That kid is really good but also our lineup sucks but the kid is dominant.

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           1. rocco……he is dominant, until that UCL begins to fray and tear….high percentage wise it .happens to them all throwing that consistently hard…..before he was drafted in 2022, he did carry some injury concerns regarding his arm, and the typical health risks of his high-velocity, hard-throwing mechanics.

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           2. The thing that separates Miz is that he is 6’6” with elite extension. Oh and he throws 104.

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              1. Amazingly the Brewers got him in the second round…he was ranked 78th before the draft. They do well with drafting big RHPs outside the first round.

                 https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2022/draft/jacob-misiorowski-694819

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        2. He was hitting corners, felt like higher velo DeGrom, it was awful to watch as a phils fan.

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           1. Yes. Besides the fact that he didn’t throw a pitch under 100 all game including pumping 103 in the final AB, his command was exceptional. Add in truly elite extension at 6’6” it’s just unhittable stuff.

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115. Marquez is a top 5 prospect in our system. His change up is easily plus and might be plus plus. If we don’t trade him, he will be a productive SP for us for a long time.

     https://x.com/Prospect_Tilt/status/2065624495776223699?s=20

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116. I am just amazed how,DD keeps his job. Nola, Garcia, turner, casty, Walker, bad contracts and no one says anything.

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117. Crawford was a bad beat for me in the betting circles last night. Ruff predicted 11 Ks. I picked 14. I was right on for 8 2/3. Then Crawford. Why not Stubby. He could have bunted.

     I did have a friend text and ask when will TJ be. My reply. Anytime. Just a matter of one pitch these days. I have seen him numerous times. Last night was his best. I am not sure he had a 3-ball count. As Kruk said couple times, “I do not think he wants us to score.”

     My son and kids still had a great time and great pics. Told him they got to see history. Romus, you will know this. Just asked Ruff. How many games have had 27 up and 27 down and yet not a perfect game? I am sure not many. Guys said last time Phillies had it done to them was 1969. I was a sophomore. Wow. Also, there has to be a name for this. We have the Immaculate Inning. Surely something for this.

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     1. When I guy throws like that….why not just check swing the whole game…Whitey Ashburn would just stick his bat out and let the ball go foul…..after a few 30 pitch count innings he may tire or get frustrated.

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        1. Romus Don in his prime

           would have hit that kid.

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     2. I was at a Phils game over the Memorial Day weekend in 1964 in which Sandy Koufax produced that 27 up / 27 down, but no perfect game feat.

        If i remember correctly, he walked Dick Allen in the 2nd inning, but he was caught stealing. No one else reached base.

        He bested Chris Short, who with the game 0-0 in the 7th, gave up a 3 run homer to Frank Howard that went over to Philco sign on the roof.

        Can’t remember what I had for breakfast, but somehow events like this stick in my memory.

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        1. Good memory…..actually it was June 4th, Thursday night game….here is the box score.

           https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/PHI/PHI196406040.shtml

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        2. Will try it again.

           https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/PHI/PHI196406040.shtml

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118. Bad news for the “But Painter has great stuff” crowd. He really doesn’t.

     Let’s start with his fastball. I am not exaggerating when I say that he has the worst fastball in MLB. The pitch value on his 4-seam is -8.7 runs. That’s in only 63 IP. Every pitch that he throws has negative run value except his curve which has a modest 0.8 run value. He has not on pitch that is good. Not one pitch that can consistently get runners out. His extension is poor. He has the same extension as Yamamoto who is 8 inches shorter than him. His repeatability on his mechanics is poor. I can see it in real time and I am no pitching coach. That’s why he his command is poor.

     He needs a complete overhaul of his mechanics. I don’t know if he can become a great or even good pitcher. But his horrible results are not because of “growing pains.” He is simply not good. Which is why he struggled at AAA too.

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     1. You hit the nail on the head, been waiting a long time for someone to own up to it. He has a lot of work to do and the major leagues is not the place to recreate yourself. Actually had a good view of a masterpiece last night. M …… threw 78% strike, 95/78, 19/27 first ball strikes and had only 5, 2-2 counts on batters and no counts higher than 2-2.

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        1. corr. 95/74

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     2. Here is my current take on him…

        He FB either needs better location, more movement, or both. Now, the Hype was up there for him, from the vast majority of the baseball world. Then the injury happened, and the he’s a good portion through the recovery, 100% but he’s getting there. By that I mean, I’d like to see where he is mid season next year. That’s a big assessment point for him.

        Take where he currently is, and compare it to his 1st MLB start. Why are the results so drastic? Is it because it was the 1st look at him? Have his mechanics changed due to surgery? Has he been told this part of his mechanics casued his injury? He is not extending because of that? Why can the baseball world see him as a #1, but he is getting T. Walker results?

        Do you think it’s a coincidence that he hit 99mph on the gun, essentially his fastest pitch of the year going up against the Miz? Im curious if he is holding back, or his mechanics are holding him back. It’s probably a good bit of both.

        Lastly, I’ll say he is extremely mature for his age, or appears to be. I would think if he has the talent,he’s going to figure it out.

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        1. https://x.com/ThePhilliesShow/status/2065528313246818511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2065528313246818511%7Ctwgr%5E3b48c7ca11f40ee8a10b93850386e42a87fa656e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fmlb%2Fphillies%2Fonsi%2F1-major-reason-andrew-painter-is-struggling-to-succeed-with-phillies

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        2. Yes, they did change his mechanics after his surgery. And they made adjustments after last season, too. I agree that he is handling it very maturely and seems like a hard worker. His mental makeup is an encouraging sign for sure.

           Here is what I mean about his extension being poor. This is fixable but needs a full offseason https://x.com/pitchingninja/status/2061192619942703118?s=46&t=-U_MfMB4sZDD0dW6wRaryg

           He should be releasing the ball much closer to home plate. (“Schwimlocity” for us old schoolers who have been on this blog a while).

           Besides his fastball I have been very surprised at how much his other pitches have been hit. Aaron Nola just overtook Painter for worst fastball in MLB based on runs added and he still has two plus pitches based on run value (curve and change). It might all be related for Painter. They may be sitting on offspeed since they don’t respect the fastball. But he doesn’t have any one pitch that is getting people out.

           Another thing that he has going for him is as bad as our system is at developing hitters (and we are terrible at that) we are excellent at developing pitchers. That’s why it has been pretty shocking how bad he has been. We usually do very well at assessing and developing pitchers. I am not giving up on him. I am not calling him a bust. He is still young. But he is going to be a net negative all year if he stays in the majors. I think that he needs to go down to the minors. He needs a full offseason of mechanical work. He needs to earn his way back to the majors in 2027. He needs to dominate AAA. And I think that DD is coming around to that too. I expect him to add a 5th starter at the deadline and send Painter down. Also Painter will hit his innings limit before season end anyway.

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           1. Hah……a reference to Michael Schwimer, a name from the distant past..

              https://www.baseball-eference.com/players/s/schwimi01.shtml

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           2.  I expect him to add a 5th starter at the deadline……..

              Tigers’ Casey Mize is a rental but could work if Detroit falls out of their play-off race.

              LikeLiked by 1 person

              1. there was a podcast With Amaro, Durbin, Salisbury,!land I forget the over guys name … but

                 Durbin gives a really good assessment of what is going on. Quick summary – Painter is getting 1st pitch strikes 65%. It’s phase 2x. He can’t get to 0-2. His counts are going long, and batters know they are going to get 4 flat FB a game, they’re not missing.

                 give it a watch. Good insights. I found it on “sports illustrated” …. But I’m sure it’s making the rounds. I linked it to but WordPress flagged it for Jim to approve

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119. Alvarado and Keller did their best to give that game away but alas they didn’t. Nice to see Spiderman have a clean inning and Realmuto a good game with the bat.

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120. I am really concerned with Banks and Alvarado. Just not the same pitchers.

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121. Wen-Hui Pan promoted to Reading after a good showing at JS.

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122. Does Brewers have any bad starters. ?

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     1. Only in the playoffs.

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123. Just like last year 0-9-0

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124. Reyes goes yard for #15.. .310

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     1. The phillies must think he can’t hit. Keeping him for trade, I believe

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        1. Also, noticed, looks like Kemp has lost his mojo.

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           1. Had a “dinger” yesterday”, but does appear to have lost his “Vibes”!

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        2. He’ll fit right in …….. no one else can either, top 5, 1 — 20 yesterday!

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125. Why are the Brewers good? That’s easy, their young talent are producing. They only have 2 hitting starters age 30+: Yelich and Bauers. The Phillies? At least 5, sometimes 6 if Crawford sits vs lefties.

     Even the Brewers pitching starters are young, only Woodruff is 30+.

     The morale of the story? Stop throwing money at older players because that’s not a path toward winning. Teams need young players to produce in order to win. The Phillies had that in 2008. The Dodgers have a lot of hitting starters 30+ but they don’t win in 2025 without Yamamoto and Sasaki, 2 young pitchers.

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     1. It’s more than that, they play hard, actually run out ground balls, Brew Crew is a good team ….. play good fundamental baseball ….. do strange things like run out ground balls, not used to that, accustomed to watching a team practice their home run trot on ground balls!

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        1. You would run out ground balls too if you knew that Bohm or Turner were fielding it. They are not exactly elite defenders.

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           1. 👍

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126. Francisco Renteria goes opposite field at 101 mph for his first professional home run today.

     https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2066539380638916957

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     1. The kid does not turn 18 years old until January…….he could be progressing so fast, that he may be all the way up to JS by the time next season ends. He should sail thru the Complex league and CLW low -A….assuming the teams are both in play next season.

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        1. People need to slow the hype train a bit. At age 18, Ronald Acuna Jr AND Ozzie Albies both reached low-A. Renteria will easily have enough time to do that if he starts stateside (FCL) for 2027.

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        2. If he’s still in the organization …

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           1. Other than Tait, Abel and maybe Caba, Dombrowski has been able to keep the reins in, on the prospects. I am thinking Middleton has not given Dave D. free rein on trading prospects.

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              1. I think this might be a clue that Jim has been hearing some trade chatter.

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           2. Please don’t say that

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           3. Jim and others, DD has been restrained compared to his Marlins, Tigers and Red Sox days as GM/President of Baseball operations.

              He managed to keep Crawford and Painter last year and I don’t think John Middleton wants to go through the bad Phillies teams that followed the Championships.

              Last time I looked the Tait catcher we sent to Minnesota was not doing great and Mick Abel has been inconsistent with the Twins.

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           4. Jim and others, DD has been restrained compared to his Marlins, Tigers and Red Sox days as GM/President of Baseball operations.

              He managed to keep Crawford and Painter last year and I don’t think John Middleton wants to go through the bad Phillies teams that followed the Championships.

              Last time I looked the Tait catcher we sent to Minnesota was not doing great and Mick Abel has been inconsistent with the Twins.

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127. Phillies pitchers stats by catcher:

     Realmuto: 411 innings caught/3.72 ERA/.246 AVG against/.687 OPS

     Marchán: 168 innings caught/4.93 ERA/.270 AVG against/.772 OPS

     https://x.com/JackFritzWIP/status/2066559473389322311

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     1. The problem is that the lineup isn’t good enough to have JT have a .606 OPS. He’s not much better than Patrick Bailey and the Giants traded Bailey away AND he had 2 gold gloves AND he was still pre-arbitration.

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        1. Well, the problem is that DD overpays to begin with and then he compounds that productive with signing players for much longer periods of time than their expected productive playing time. To this day, I’ve rarely seen a contract as stupid (from the second it was signed) as the one they gave Trey Turner and that’s not a knock on Turner, who has somewhat underperformed his contract thus far, but has otherwise been decent. I mean, unless you’re essentially signing one of the greatest players who ever lived (spoiler alert, Trey Turner is NOT that guy), you don’t give a 30-year old player an 11 year contract. I mean, for the love of God, they could be paying for 5-7 dead years on that contact. WTF?!!! Who does that? Short answer, DD and pretty much nobody else. I hope Middleton is noticing this too – there are other ways to go about this than to do these really dumb contracts that weigh teams down like an anchor.

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           1. By definition any FA signing is with the team offering the highest price on the market. If we didn’t offer Trea $300 mil then he wouldn’t have signed with us. Last year he led the NL in hitting and was a 6.7 WAR player. He is having a down year. but that happens,.

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              1. Agreed that he was very good last year – very, very good. My problem isn’t so much that they signed him it’s the dead years at the end – a lot of salary, hanging out there, doing nothing, eating up valuable cap space, year after year for seemingly forever.

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                 1. No question we will have to pay the piper at some point.

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           2. Catch, you clearly feel very strongly about this, imploring God and invoking a WTF in the same sentence.

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128. I don’t have a BA subscription, but hopefully someone here does and can let us know what they say…but I love the headline!

     What does *the* best fastball in the minor leagues look like? It looks a lot like Phillies 22-year-old prospect Marty Gair’s heater, argues Eli Ben-Porat with the latest Statcast data: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/marty-gair-khristian-curtis-headline-10-statcast-standouts-june-15/

     https://x.com/BaseballAmerica/status/2066589089252450743?s=20

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     1. Summary is that his fastball has incredible carry and he’s throwing harder than ever. Also has a “deathball slider.” A couple excerpts:

        “Future closer. We could end the blurb there, but that would be underselling Gair. . . Lately, Gair has been absolutely on fire, sitting at 100 mph with huge carry on his fastball.

        . . .

        Back on May 15, he topped out at 102.2 mph, and has now hit 101.5 mph or higher in three different games. There may not be a better pure-stuff fastball in all of the minors right now.”

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        1. Wow. That’s awesome

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        2. I’ve seen some video of him and, yes, the fastball is a plus plus pitch with a ton of ride and movement. How good he becomes will depend on his ability to command that pitch and throw a good breaking pitch for strikes. But he’s a very promising potential late inning arm. It looks like they played the long game with him and it’s really paying off.

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129. Personally I don’t see this team as benefitting from a splashy rental type trade of young controllable prospects therefore holding as opposed to buying or selling seems the more prudent action at this stage.

     It remains to be seen what they do as they will be facing a wall of rage over the production (or lack there of) they are receiving from some highly paid veterans.

     To compound that by weakening the system any further beyond where it currently is would be near catastrophic in my view.

     A coin toss but they could certainly soften that blowback if a few younger players get added to the mix and show signs of promise.

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     1. DMAR…..how about a trade with the Halos as they stumble further in the AL-West….no not Trout, but Jo Adell. He has power, not much contact however.

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        1. Similar to Marsh, Adell is a former top prospect who hasn’t put it together. He also is a FA in 2028 like Marsh.

           But if the Phillies wanted Adell, why bother trading for Derek Hill? And the Angels won’t give Adell away, it’ll likely cost Dante Nori.

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130. Ramon Marquez, Tanner Greshman and third-rounder Cody Bowker all were promoted from Clearwater to Jersey Shore today.

     Bowker: 2-4, 5.90 ERA, 39.2 IP, 64 Ks, 20 BB
     Marquez: 3-0, 1.86 ERA, 29 IP, 47 Ks, 10 BB
     Gresham: 1-3, 2.95 ERA, 42.2 IP, 51 Ks, 23 BB

     https://x.com/Mitch_Rupert/status/2066894924352532712

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     1. And Fisher moved to Clearwater https://x.com/FuturePhils/status/2066899529350226104?s=20

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        1. Wow, Phillies are getting aggressive with their promotions.

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131. and Matthew Fisher promoted to Clearwater

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132. about what Jim said earlier in relation to Francisco Renteria … “If he’s still in the organization …”

     I’m generally supportive of moving minor leaguers in an all-in move WHEN that move gives you a really good chance to win. With all the offensive holes we have (2 outfielders and Bohm, Turner, Stott), I just don’t think we are one move away.

     I’ve been waiting on an international prospect to dream on, and yes, I know it’s early, but having lived through the likes of Luis Encarnacion, Jhailyn Ortiz, Seung Hak Lee, Jalvin Arias (I know, it’s early, but his results have been beyond poor), I’d hate to see them give up Renteria when I’m not sure they can win with the team they have. Certainly, the pitching could carry them and if 2 or 3 bats get hot, it’s POSSIBLE, but certainly not probable.

     This is the first big signing that has really had some instant success, SSS, I know, but again, still better than anything we’ve seen. I know Ortiz had a modicum of first year success, but that fizzled quickly, so still waiting for “our turn” on the international market.

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     1. When I heard about Renteria and read his profile, I became super excited about a new international position player prospect for the Phillies for maybe the first time ever. No more $1.5 million skinny little outfielders who have zero chance of hitting big league pitching (they kept picking the same guy over and over and over again and were shocked each time it failed – and why were they surprised? Well, I have no idea). Ortiz was a good prospect at the time, but he was a polar opposite of a slick fielder, he was a big slugger type – not a multi-tool player like Renteria. I feel very safe in concluding that Renteria is the type of International signing the Phillies have not had since the early 90s, when I started following the team. He is leaps and bounds better as a prospect than pretty much every other Intnt’l signing they had in the interim – and it’s not a close call.

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133. Regarding Renteria, his triple slash is eyepopping-

     .359/.468/1.083

     which made me look at DSL stats to see how he ranked-

     51st for OPS

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     1. If you have the time…..do it by age…like where does he rank with other 17 year olds.

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        1. 28th for all 17 and younger

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           1. Thanks for that.

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        2. LOL – how can you ding a guy for having a 1.083 OPS? But somehow we’ve found a way. The point is that he’s doing just great to start. Can we at least agree on that?

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134. Marsh will leadoff tonight, Schwarber at 1B, Sosa at SS, Harper DH. Turner gets the night off, hopefully he can figure something out here, not sure how you go from winning the batting title to hitting under .190 for May and June so far.

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135. Turner sitting tonight

     Schwarber playing First

     Harper DH

     Marsh leading off

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136. https://x.com/i/status/2066918024309789156

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     1. Wow, all 3 trade targets will cost a lot. Maybe Duran costs the least because he’s really having a subpar year but he’s like 2 years removed from a 9 WAR season.

        Presumably the Phillies will try to keep Miller and Renteria, so that means Wood and Marquez will definitely be included in any deal.

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        1. As I’ve said before, Marquez is as good as gone as far as I’m concerned and I’m really bummed out about it. I think it’s quite possible Painter gets moved – and not really sure how I feel about that. I think they keep Wood or very much try to do that.

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           1. if it was said last week that if we thought of sending Painter down to AAA who would we call up?…..and now we talk about trading Painter or Wood or Marquez or some combo of the 3 would be considered. WHY!

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              1. Because this team almost certainly doesn’t have enough hitting to win a WS and we aren’t getting a really good hitter without giving up some of our best prospects – it is what it is and whether we like it or not, if they are trading for a legitimate hitter, some of these top prospects will be traded and probably more of them than we would like.

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        2. Dombrowski is familiar with Duran…he drafted him in’18. So he may lean with Duran.

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        3. Duran has all the makings of a guy who doesnt click with philly fans, hits .230 and gets added to the long list of bad mid-season acquisitions

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137. Keller goes on 15 day DL

     lazar recalled

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138. I feel like showcasing Wood by jumping to AA. There’s stories about Marquez but I don’t hear Phillies talking bout him that much. Dombrowski doesn’t seem to value outfielders as much as others based on his Phillies history. I hope it changes for Buxton. Keep Miller, Marquez, Renteria.

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139. No, I haven’t heard any player/prospect specific trade chatter that I want to go into. However, this is the first trading deadline where the Phillies have no players/prospects who are off limits in the right deal. That doesn’t necessarily mean that the Phillies will give away prospects, but they did include a promising young catcher in a package for two years of Jhoan Duran.

     Now, I don’t think any single trade is going to fix the Phillies. I never want to trade prospects but accept that it is part of the business of baseball. With all or part of the 2027 season in doubt, can the Phillies afford to not go for it this season? Harper, Turner, Schwarber, Realmuto, and Nola would be one more season closer to the dead years on their contracts and Wheeler’s last contract year is 2027.

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     1. Jim is correct. We are pot committed. We have to go for it. No more mediocre RF additions. I think DD is ready to go all in. And I think that it is going to be at a price that people on here hate.

        Let me give you an example. I don’t think that Buxton will waive his no trade clause, but if he does, to get Buxton, we would have to give up Wood and Renteria plus 2 more in our top 30. So the package for Buxton would be something like Wood, Renteria, Marquez and Espinosa. You ready to do that deal? (Note, I am assuming that no one would value Aidan until they get medical clearance.) And that might not be enough to beat other teams.

        I don’t think that Buxton alone is enough to win a series against the Dodgers. So I will give you another name…Adley Rutschman. I saw rumors that Baltimore might move him. He has only one more season before FA and Basallo is a stud. Adley would cost us Ferrebus, Burkholder, Aroon and Obermueller. Honestly that may not be enough.

        And since neither Nola nor Painter are playoff caliber pitchers, we need to add a 4th starter too. No idea who that is or if they would take what we have left in our farm system.

        So are you ready to gut our farm system to go for it? Or do you want to trade for another mediocre corner OF?

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        1. I would do that Rutschman deal with very little hesitation, so that likely means it’s not enough.

           Honestly, if we gut the farm for legitimate stars and/or regulars with multiple years of control, I’m fine with that. The Duran trade stung, but I liked it at the time and I like it now. Those guys are tough to come by and the odds of the players you give up matching or surpassing what they give you right now are small. Obviously sometimes you WILL get burned on those trades, but that’s the cost of business.

           It’s giving up prospects for fringe upgrades that bothers me, and I’m worried that’s what we’ll have to settle for just because that’s all we’ll be able to afford (in terms of prospect capital, not money).

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           1. Yup, that is a legitimate concern…

              Wanting to finally go for it, and not having enough.

              But.. where the rubber meets the road is our FO willing to push the deal to an area of value that other teams are unwilling to match. Usually… if a team is willing to empty their farm, they can get it done.

              A perfect example of this is the initial Realmuto trade. Sixto wasn’t the best prospect of the teams trying to trade for Realmuto, BUT he was the best offered… thats where the FO will get the deal done. So … by Wood, Renteria, … Miller. Something is going you happen.

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        2. With all due respect, you MIGHT be overestimating how much these guys would cost. That package you mentioned for Buxton I would think twice about giving up for pretty much anyone non-Shohei. I feel like every year the talk is “this player is going to cost so much!” and then if they are traded, the package is less than we presumed. Just my two cents. But yeah, Wood/Renteria/Marquez…those are all potential stars and would not even consider that.

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           1. Hold on…I am watching Andrew Painter pitch…I will respond to this comment about overestimating prospects when the game is over.

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140. Reyes # 16 tonight.

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     1. I think a Reyes/Rincones platoon would be solid. I know I am the outcast here. For some reason, everybody seems to think that since Reyes struggled in his first 2-3 weeks in the majors, he stinks and is a AAAA player. Maybe he is, but since when do we judge based on a small sample size like that? I think hes always going to strike out, I think hes always going to be a defensive liability, but that power plays. Considering Rincones can’t hit leftys, it kind of seems like a solid platoon option in my opinion. Both will hit for a poor average but both offer some pop.

        LikeLiked by 2 people

     2. One thing I think this year has proven with Reyes, and that’s that the power is legitimate – he has bona fide 65/70 power. He also has a pretty decent hit tool. However, he has to lay off the bad pitches or he won’t be able to progress and major league pitchers will carve him alive. In the long run, I think both he and Kemp (and Brandon Crawford) will be legitimate big league hitters but adjusting to big league pitching is really hard and usually takes a while. Take a look at Kody Clemens or Brandon Marsh or Curtis Mead – it usually doesn’t happen overnight and you have to stick with young hitters you believe have potential.

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        1. If they have room on the roster for Rincones and Reyes, that platoon would be fun to watch. I’m still pretty high on Reyes if he can learn to lay off bad pitches. I am also not out on Kemp – he’s dealing with the disappointment of thinking he was on the verge of a permanent big league role to now struggling in AAA – guys like Kemp usually bounce back and I believe the hitting talent is real and he will end up having a big league career, not just a cup of coffee.

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141. Unfortunate that 14 months ago the Phils traded Kody Clemens for cash considerations. Since he joined the Twins he’s hit 30 homers in just over 600 plate appearances (and his average exit velocity is very good). Playing RF for them tonight. Phils talent evaluation needs to be better.

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     1. Trouble is , Kody is a LHB and his OPS vs LHP over the last two seasons is less than .600. And yet another OFer, or part-time 1b, that needs platooning.

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        1. Looking thru the minors we are in no danger of having candidates for 1B ….. actually have 3 on the big club.

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142. I think sometimes we overestimate how much in prospect capital a team has to give up. Last summer Phil’s got a lights out 27 yr old closer with 2.5 yrs control for a 19 yr old single A prospect who has questions about sticking at catcher ( when there’s questions probably means fringy behind plate). And a prospect pitcher with good arm but most of career could not throw strikes.

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     1. No, I don’t think so if you’re going for a legitimate big league hitting star. Remember that relievers, even pretty awesome ones, have less value than starting pitchers or position players. If you want a first tier big league hitter, like Byron Buxton, it’s going to cost a LOT.

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     2. Say what you want about Eduardo Tait, but he’s ranked #42 on MLB Pipeline. And Mick Abel was a former top prospect that needed a change of scenery. That’s a decent price to pay for 2.5 years of Duran.

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143. The Phillies are now 29-17 against a RHP. The .630 win percentage is currently the best in the majors

     https://x.com/JeffKerrPHL/status/2067058305747366140

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144. If you’re the Phillies perhaps the only prospect who is untouchable in a Buxton trade is Renteria – everyone else is pretty much in play. Buxton is a superstar, on an affordable contract with 2 1/2 years of team control, who is EXACTLY what this team needs in terms of his being a righty, hitting for power and playing the outfield well – he’s going to cost a freaking fortune in prospect captial and, you know what, he might be worth it.

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     1. I’d be willing to go for Adell ilo of Buxton…will cost less, age as a factor also, and with the new CBA the cap hit may be less. And finally, he plays more….Buxton’s last 6/7 years he comes up injured quite often and at 33 not sure he will ever be a 140/145 game a season guy.

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145. I’m going to throw this out there … different twist …since… to me its interesting to speculate on, whether its here or not…

     Mike Trout. What are his thoughts on going for a title? He has 5 potential chances left…. if he stays with the Angels… it’s very likely 3 max. Times ticking for Mike. He can obviously sign 1 year deals after that, chasing the title, but… do you think as an athlete, as a competitor … it finally starts to weigh on you with the “loyalty” angle he is playing? After seeing Othani … after missing the WBC title…

     My take, he could ask this deadline.. if not this one, definitely in 2028. Not arguing the Phillies should or shouldn’t just that the idea of asking for a trade has to be warming up.

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     1. Mike Trout is a fascinating play – and quite possible. They would need to reduce his salary and the Phillies would need to send a good prospect or two – and while it would be quite risky it could be a great acquisition for a couple of years – the last few years, perhaps not so much. It’s definitely something to consider!

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146. “No one truly knows what another person is thinking. We spend our lives often masking emotions, thoughts and perceptions just to stay aligned with what’s the acceptable way.”

     https://www.philliesbaseballfan.com/post/my-son

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     1. That is a serious, raw article. I implore anyone who is having issues, please talk to someone. Someone out there will listen.

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     2. I can’t respond to Steve but I hope he reads this:

        My condolences to Steve Potter and his family about his son’s passing. His articles are very insightful and accurate.

        Lastly, Steve try not to beat yourself up too much as I am sure your family did everything humanly possible to help your son. Life is not fair and can be cruel.

        Take care of yourself and lean into your family and friends for support during this dark time.

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     3. Wishing all the best to Steve Potter and family during this dark time. I’ve only recently started reading his posts and articles regularly. They’re very insightful and a joy to read. I hope he continues to post because he’s passionate and a great resource.

        As for trades, I agree with the poster above who said that a deal involving Renteria, Wood, and Marquez would be too much (for any player). For the right player, I’d be amenable to moving one or two of them at most. It’s a shame Painter hasn’t panned out immediately because you’d feel so much better moving one of Marquez or Wood if you knew Painter was a budding ace on a cheap deal for the next x number of years.

        I think this team is going to have to pray on health and trade for a RF that moves the needle. We know the pitching can get them there in a playoff series, but the offense really needs another star. If the pitching has any setback (injury or otherwise) in the second half of the year, it’ll all be for nothing anyway because the offense can’t carry them even with an addition. Trading for a star OF would sort of be their “last shot,” and one that could help if the Braves continue to slip a little and the Dodgers and Brewers can be had in a short series. The AL doesn’t scare me.

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147. Kyle Stowers has been struggling all year but he turns on Painter’s 96mph fastball on the inner half of the plate. Just another poor pitch by Painter.

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148. If the Phillies are trying to win games, you can’t put Painter out there right now. He’s just getting ripped up.

     Painter has made 13 appearances, Phillies are 3-10. Don’t tell me Alan Rangel is worse than what Painter is doing right now.

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149. Time for Rangel to come up and for Painter to go down. He’s lost and needs a refresh.

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150. If we’re going to lose every 5 days anyway might as well let one of the AAAA guys get shelled than Painter. He needs to go down and fix his fastball. Even if it’s Clearwater and he gets shut down from games for a bit.

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     1. Mercifully, Painter’s day is over after 2 innings and 6 earned runs. His ERA is now 7.06. He needs to be sent down after the game. It’s mismanagement if he has another start next week (against the hot hitting Nationals!).

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        1. The bad news on Painter is that he’s not a major league pitcher right now and has to be sent down to completely overhaul his delivery and release point and some other things.

           The good news is that he throws hard, knows how to move the ball, and is about as mature of a young player as I can recall. But he’s got work to do. There’s no way around it.

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        2. Yeah a week ago I thought the opposite but now it was too much of a risk to his confidence. As V1 states below I would have preferred they sent him to the lab

           I don’t understand what AAA is going to do for him honestly.

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151. Steve – should you read this, please let me say how sorry I am for your family tragedy. I’ve read your stuff for years and Jim even introduced us a few years back during one of my spring training trips. I was encouraged to read some of the nice memories you had of him. Hang in there.

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152. Painter is sent down to LHV.

     A coordinated move hasn’t been made yet.

     guessing Rangel or why not Brayden Tucker. In ten starts he has 1.26 ERA.

     both of there starts line up. Both start tonight. See if either gets pulled early tonight

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153. Sneaky interesting name for trade deadline.

     Reid Detmers

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     1. Would definitely be a good add, but he’s only 26 and doesn’t reach FA until 2029 (and even has 2 option years left). So he’s gonna cost a ransom.

        At this particular moment, I think the Phillies should be asking about the price tag of Robbie Ray. He’s a pure rental having an okay-not-great year, so the cost shouldn’t be prohibitive. We need the depth and he’s a “crafty lefty” at this point in his career, which I think could actually play up with JT calling the game for him.

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     2. Why would the Angles trade Detmers unless the package is enormous?

        he is only 26yo. having a career year, already a 2.8 fWAR, the 5th best FIP in MLB at 2.81, and locked up until 2029. The Angels are desperate for pitching. he isn’t going anywhere.

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154. I want to add my voice to the chorus of consolation for Steve Potter. If you read this, Steve, we are all so sorry for your loss. Your son sounded like a great man and I’m sure he will be dearly missed for decades to come.

     I know you mentioned in your post that you’ve felt a certain societal pressure to, “be strong” and grieve in the, “right way.” But the only thing you and your family need to do is be there for each other and grieve however you feel is best for yourselves.

     I can’t even imagine the feeling of losing a child, but I know that the loss of a loved one of any kind never really goes away and you just learn to live with it. Your son is now at peace. I hope, in time, you all can find peace yourselves. Your son may be gone, but memories and his legacy live on. And hopefully that legacy and lessons learned from his life can be used as a catalyst for change for the better.

     I’m not a religious person, so I won’t say I’m praying for you or that God is with you or anything like that. I’ll just say that your pain now is proof of how much love you had for each other. And even if the time was too short, that means it was time well spent.

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155. To Steve Potter, though we’ve never met I want to share my condolences with you. Dan K has stared eloquently about your mutual love for you son. May that love help ease what must be great pain.

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156. As disappointing as it is to see Painter’s performance, I am happy that they sent him down. He needs a lot of work. Frankly, I think that he should go down to Clearwater and work in the lab without facing batters. I am not writing him off. He seems to have a good mindset. But this is not a quick fix. I doubt that he will be back this year and not sure that we can count on him for next year. I don’t think his issues are solved with “tweaks.”

     I have seen the name Robbie Ray thrown around as a potential target. I like that name.
     1. Giants are bad and definitely selling.
     2. He is a rental and making a high salary. It won’t cost us much prospect capital if we are willing to take his salary.
     3. He is a veteran. Has pitched in the playoffs. The kind of guy DD likes.

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     1. I agree…

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     2. This side by side of Painter and Miz really shows a lot of the problems in Painter’s delivery.

        https://x.com/NateRoper_/status/2067645686703632517?s=20

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        1. I am not a train eye but one difference I can see, Painter at one point in his delivery has his chin pointed upwards as he keans back, and left shoulder subsequently follows along …….vs Miz who keeps his chin level to the batter and left shoulder level. Have to do a stop frame by frame look to view that. Whether it makes a difference who knows….and it may be only for those select pitches in this video.

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     3. Agree that they are probably going to have to “reinvent” Painter and, if they do it right, the wait will be worth it. It’s entirely unclear how long that wait will be. Halladay reinvention, was, I think, an off-season and half a season going from low A ball and slowly climbing back up to the majors. Like I said, Painter still has a lot to like, including a great arm, the ability to make pitches move quite a bit and a very, very serious and mature approach. If anyone can overcome this, I think it’s him and I wish him the best of luck. He seems like a great dude.

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        1. Agreed

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157. The Phillies are using the International Bonus Pool money they acquired in the Derek Hill trade on a RHP from Taiwan. ($700k bonus)

     https://x.com/PhilsTailgate/status/2067574538540388369?s=20

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     1. Looks like the Phillies are finally making progress in the Asian Free Agent Market which is great to see.

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        1. they are definitely spending more money…whether that is progress or not is TBD imo. we need to see these guys become real prospects.

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        2. They have always done that…..Korea and Taiwan….they have no such luck in Japan. But they to keep going heavily in Korea and Taiwan and will eventually pay off.

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           1. But they NEED to keep going ……

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158. I am terribly sorry, Mr. Potter, for your loss and hope for peace, strength, unity and healing within your family as you deal with this horrible tragedy. No parent should ever have to deal with the hand you’ve been dealt.

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159. The pain of losing a child is unimaginable. Unfortunately I lived this along side my parents when my sisters and I lost our little brother some 20 years ago.

     May peace find you Steve in enough of life’s moments along the way from here.

     I genuinely feel for you and your family.

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160. Tanner Banks was also optioned down.

     Seth Johnson and Bryse Wilson are up. I hope both these guys take advantage of their opportunity.

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     1. Seth Johnson’s got an arm and potential – Bryse Wilson is a journeyman – nothing more or less.

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        1. I get what you’re saying but Bryse Wilson is only about a year older than Johnson.

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           1. That may be so, but Johnson has further upside and potential (and, actually, more than a little bit), Wilson does not; he’s just kinda there.

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              1. Sounds like Wilson triggered an upward mobility clause, so they’re giving him a shot to see if he might be worth keeping. If he flounders, they’ll release him and move on to the next.

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161. Adolis Garcia has underwent season ending surgery. He will remain on the 60 day IL for the rest of the season.

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     1. Another brilliant acquisition of an over-the-hill early 30s player from the people who brought you the Max Kepler, Jordan Romano, Whit Merrifield, and Kyle Gibson acquisitions. One magical stratagem after the next!

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        1. Really a string of roll the dice and hope for ‘snake eyes’. Dombrowski did not do well with those stop-gap signings.

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162. kolby Ballard signed to minor league deal

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     1. Allard

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163. The Phillies bench, minus Sosa, has hit a combined .114….On Aug 25,2024 I saw Kolby Allard beat the Royals with 5 innings, 2 runs allowed, and Garrett Stubbs went 4 for 4

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164. Buxton reiterated to The Athletic that he’s not interested in being traded. By the sounds of it, the Twins as an organization would have to go scorched earth to get him to waive his NTC.

     So scratch him off your respective wish lists.

     And while we’re on the topic of OF who aren’t going to waive their NTC, Trout is back on the IL with hamstring problems. Such a bummer.

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165. How excited should we be about Cardoza? Can he play CF?

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166. Alvarado stinks, can he be gone next?

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167. New discussion at Phillies Discussion (6/18/2026) | Phuture Phillies

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