BREAKING: Phillies give disappointing update on reliever who might not be ready for Opening Day
With Opening Day fast approaching, the Philadelphia Phillies face critical decisions as they finalize their roster. Unfortunately, there’s concerning news emerging from spring training regarding a promising young reliever, Orion Kerkering, potentially missing the start of the season.
According to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, there’s uncertainty surrounding Kerkering’s readiness for the Phillies’ Opening Day bullpen. Manager Rob Thomson expressed caution, indicating they don’t want to rush the 22-year-old, who hasn’t pitched since March 1 due to a bout of flu that swept through the team.
Although Kerkering is expected to resume throwing soon at the team’s complex, his absence from spring training games has hindered his preparation for the regular season. Despite only logging two innings in Grapefruit League action, he demonstrated promise with two strikeouts and just one hit allowed.
There's a chance Orion Kerkering will not be ready for Opening Day, Rob Thomson said. Kerkering hasn't pitched since March 1 because of the flu. He's scheduled to throw at the complex sometime this week. "He's 22 years old," Thomson said. "We're not going to push this thing."
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) March 18, 2024
While it’s disappointing that Kerkering may not be available at the start of the season, the silver lining is that his setback isn’t due to a long-term injury. Having made a notable impact in his late-season debut last year, Kerkering appeared poised to secure a spot in the Phillies’ bullpen this spring. However, his delayed start creates an opportunity for other depth players to vie for a roster spot in his absence.
Who might the Phillies pick to fill Kerkering’s spot?
With uncertainties looming over the Philadelphia Phillies’ bullpen, Roster Resource suggests that Connor Brogdon and Spencer Turnbull are likely candidates to secure spots for the upcoming season. However, if Orion Kerkering isn’t ready for Opening Day, Max Castillo could potentially fill the third opening as a long-man innings-eater. Additionally, Michael Mercado, Luis Ortiz, and Yunior Marte are viable options from the 40-man roster.
Despite Mercado’s spring ERA of 6.35, his impressive strikeout and walk rates indicate solid control and effectiveness on the mound, with a 38.5 percent strikeout rate and a 3.8 percent walk rate.
Yunior Marte boasts a spotless 0.00 ERA and a promising 1.04 WHIP, accompanied by six strikeouts in 7 2/3 spring innings. However, his walk rate of 20 percent presents a challenge for his bullpen viability.
Luis Ortiz has pitched eight innings in spring training, posting a respectable 3.38 ERA, a 1.00 WHIP, five strikeouts, and only two walks.
As we await confirmation on Kerkering’s availability for Opening Day, the Phillies remain flexible with their bullpen options. Regardless of the immediate outcome, Kerkering’s eventual return to the majors is eagerly anticipated once he is fully prepared to contribute.