The Philadelphia Phillies suffered another setback Tuesday, just one day after snapping a five-game losing streak — and with the trade deadline fast approaching, major roster decisions are looming.
With Bryce Harper still sidelined, it’s obvious the Phillies are lacking offensive firepower, particularly in the outfield. Add in ongoing bullpen issues, highlighted by late-inning trouble from Taijuan Walker, and it’s clear the team will be active in seeking reinforcements. But perhaps the biggest shift could come in the rotation — and it may involve breakout rookie Mick Abel.
After an impressive start to his MLB career — allowing just one run across more than 11 innings — Abel came crashing back to earth against the Chicago Cubs, surrendering three solo home runs and issuing three walks in just four innings. The rocky outing has sparked speculation that Abel’s time in the rotation may already be nearing an end.
As Matt Grazel of FanSided noted, unless another injury hits the rotation beyond Aaron Nola’s current absence, there’s simply no room to regularly slot Abel into the starting five. Grazel went as far as to say Abel may have sealed his “trade deadline fate” with Tuesday’s performance — a tough but common reality for contending teams.
While Nola may not return until after the All-Star break, the Phillies’ rotation still boasts enough depth to weather the storm. And with top prospect Andrew Painter potentially returning later this season, Abel could become a valuable but expendable trade chip as the front office targets outfield and bullpen upgrades.
Bottom line: Abel’s latest start may end up being one of his last in a Phillies uniform — not because he failed, but because the team might need to move him in order to win now.
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