18 Philadelphia Phillies (Eflin) @ New York Mets (Syndergaard)

xogfog 2018-09-09 23:03:58 UTC #141

E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles... sigh

LoneStarPhan 2018-09-10 00:35:58 UTC #142

I think Eflin and Velasquez have worn down over the long season. Both had multiple very strong starts this season and showed that they can win the big leagues. Neither is a finished product but both have the potential to be very strong in the rotation next season. I do agree that neither should be handed a slot in the rotation but that both are likely to win such a spot in spring training. Right now, Pivetta, Eflin, Velasquez, and Eickhoff provide potential members for the rotation along with a few of the AAA pitchers such as de los Santos, Suarez, Irvin, Anderson, and a few others. They will compete for spots with Nola and Arrieta in the rotation. I would like to see them add left handed veteran starter over the off season.

Philsmania 2018-09-10 00:47:28 UTC #143

Isn't this the third straight season that Valasquez has looked worn down in September? Him becoming a solid rotation piece just isn't happening.

Philsmania 2018-09-10 00:48:54 UTC #144

Per NBC Sports Philadelphia, Phillies have the NL's worst record since August 18.

mdougherty12 2018-09-10 04:20:36 UTC #145

Velasquez had thoracic outlet syndrome in 2017 and had off-season surgery for it.

Austinfan 2018-09-10 17:28:33 UTC #146

All three young pitchers are approaching their career high in innings, and none are used to pitching in September, the combination of physical and mental fatigue probably explains their struggles.

All three have maintained velocity, but are struggling with FB command and secondary pitches, and that's part of the learning curve for young pitchers, it's not like Halladay was an immediate success. He bounced around for a couple seasons before putting together at age 24.