Probably a much greater chance in 2020 than there would have been in 2010, or 1980. Both the stuff and high-tech backstory is what successful (if short-lived) major league relievers can be made of these days. And that drive and make-up could go a long way. Like Minnitti said he could also be done in a year. But the reasons he never pitched above Low A are also unique (being a late bloomer and now the cancelled season).
I don't imagine he'll pitch for the Phillies this year, but stranger things have happened.
But when the umpire shouts, "Play Ball," you can bet Phillies officials will be watching Barber closely. It would be foolish to speculate what might happen to a kid, soon to be 25, whose career work totals just 20⅔ innings in the low minors ... but the Phillies' bullpen is a land of opportunity.
"People might say, 'He's older, he's facility-made, he's a carnival arm,'" Minniti said. "The odds are incredibly stacked against guys like this. But let's just let it rip and see where it goes. I could see him progressing quickly this season and from there, you never know.
