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It’s July? Already? Wow. That went by fast. Seems like just yesterday, the Phillies were calling up prospects. Wait, they did? Cool, cool.
Well, the Nick Williams era started with something.
He got a hit (yay).
But they lost (boo). You can read the recap here before you begin with today’s game.
Anyway, today is kind of an important game. Not so much for any kind of playoff implications. No, this one is far more important to the Phillies for the end of the month. Why? Look at the lineups:
Take a look at who’s pitching for the Phillies today. That’s right, Jeremy Hellickson. Look at his season, broken into three (small sample sized) parts
First 5 starts: 30 IP, 1.80 ERA, .515 opp. OPS
Next 9 starts: 47 IP, 6.89 ERA, .991 opp. OPS
Last 2 starts: 13 IP, 1.38 ERA, .590 opp. OPS
Something has clicked lately as Hellickson has looked terrific his past two starts. He’s getting more strikeouts, limiting damage, and subsequently, re-entered his name into trade discussions. The Phillies really need him to continue whatever run he is on in order to maximize the return they get when they trade him. That’s right - WHEN. There is no “if” this year. There is no literal reason to keep him past July 31, so if they wanted better goodies, he needs to keep being...good.
Enjoy discussing in the comments and go Phillies (specifically Jeremy!)