ESPN REPORT: The The St.Louis Cardinals Head Coach is Being Fired Due to…
After securing their second consecutive series win by defeating the Los Angeles Angels 2-1 on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Phillies have earned a day of rest before starting a six-game homestand against the San Francisco Giants.
The upcoming break will be a relief for the Phillies, who have been playing non-stop since April 18th.
The beginning of the season has been impressive for the Phillies, who were the first team to reach 20 wins. Their latest victory, marked by a comeback on Tuesday, showcased two previously criticized players turning into heroes.
While there are numerous compelling storylines unfolding, such as the emergence of a young star player, one of the most intriguing narratives revolves around Spencer Turnbull and his consistent performance on the mound.
Turnbull, who joined the Phillies on a one-year, $2 million contract during the offseason, wasn’t initially expected to be part of the starting rotation, which included Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suarez, Taijuan Walker, and Christopher Sanchez. However, with Walker’s injury during Spring Training, Turnbull stepped into the fifth spot, despite limited pitching opportunities due to previous Tommy John surgery.
The former second-round pick has been outstanding this season, boasting a 1.67 ERA with 36 strikeouts in 32 1/3 innings across six starts.
Now, with Walker’s return, Philadelphia is reconsidering Turnbull’s role within the team. Manager Rob Thomson and his coaching staff are contemplating various options, including the possibility of Turnbull piggybacking behind another starter.
It appears likely that Turnbull will be paired with left-hander Sanchez, with one starting the game and the other finishing it, dividing their workload approximately equally.
While unconventional, this strategy offers several advantages, such as providing rest days for the bullpen and allowing two top pitchers to maintain a throwing schedule against Major League competition.
The specifics of this arrangement are yet to be finalized, but Thomson hinted that a decision could be made as early as Friday, with an announcement imminent.
