MLB Writer Predicts Phillies Will Part Ways With Inexperienced Pitcher
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
The National League East is loaded with talented rosters, and the Philadelphia Phillies have still found themselves near the top of the division alongside the New York Mets.
At this point, the Phillies need to do everything in their power to maximize their big league roster. This includes making cuts and trades to elevate the roster to its potential.
FanSided's Zachary Rotman recently predicted the Phillies would part ways with relief pitcher Michael Mercado in an obvious move ahead of the trade deadline.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JULY 23: The Philadelphia Phillies logo on a hat in the dugout during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on July 23, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JULY 23: The Philadelphia Phillies logo on a hat in the dugout during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on July 23, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Brandon Sloter/Image"The Phillies' bullpen was already a weakness, but Jose Alvarado's suspension made it even worse. There are some talented pitchers in the 'pen, but for the most part, the unit leaves a lot to be desired. Michael Mercado is part of that," Rotman wrote. "Mercado is inexperienced as he only has seven appearances in his MLB career, two of which have come this season.
"In those outings, though, he's allowed 18 runs on 20 hits in 15 innings pitched. This season, he dealt a scoreless inning in his first outing, but allowed two runs in an inning six days later. He hasn't had much exposure to the majors, but what he's done with his cups of coffee hasn't been good enough to stick around. That, in addition to his 5.31 ERA in Triple-A this season, makes it likely that he's long for Philadelphia."
Mercado feels like he's on the roster to fill a spot until the Phillies can acquire a better pitcher. Philadelphia will almost certainly be on the hunt for a few relief pitchers at the trade deadline.
They'll also be getting Jose Alvarado back from suspension at some point this season.
All in all, it would be quite shocking to see Mercado on the roster for much longer.
More MLB: Guardians Predicted To Swing Unthinkable Intra-divisional Trade For Star
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