July 26th, 2018, the Phillies sit at 57-44 and have a game and half lead on the Braves in the division. Fresh off of taking 2 of 3 from the Dodgers, I think people need to stop asking if the Phillies are a good team. Like Rhys Hoskins said after yesterday’s game, “We are a good team.”
It is clear from here on out that the Phillies are not pretenders and that they indeed are a very good team. The funny part is, they have taken over the division the lead in the month of July because of their bullpen.
Surprisingly, the much-maligned unit has statically been one of the best bullpens in baseball the last month. It comes as no surprise that the Phillies rise to the top of the division has coincided with a more consistent bullpen. However, the bullpen is still far from perfect. It is clear Seranthony Dominguez has the best stuff and should be in the closing role. Other than that, I can’t really point to another guy who I feel completely comfortable with on the mound.
At this point however, there isn’t really much relief help left on the market for the Phillies now that the Yankees have traded for Zach Britton. If the Phillies can’t get their hands on a top relief pitcher, there really isn’t a point in making a move. I think you just ride it out from here and hope they stay hot. By my count, there is only one other arm that may be available that could make a big difference. That is, Raisel Iglesias from the Reds. Aside from him, there is a big drop off in what will be available. Also, there is no guarantee that the Reds will make him available.
Iglesias provides the last hope the Phillies have to acquire a difference-making relief pitcher at the deadline. We will all get a firsthand look at him this week. The Phillies begin a four-game series with the Reds today, and I am sure the Phillies will be kicking the tires on a trade for Iglesias as the week progresses.
