Could Philadelphia Phillies Top Prospect Be on Brink of Call-Up?
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Finding a viable fifth starting pitcher has been quite difficult for the Philadelphia Phillies this season.
Andrew Painter, the club’s top prospect, has been injured since spring training. Bailey Falter has been inconsistent with his command. Matt Strahm has performed well, but he’s really most useful as a long reliever.
Cristopher Sanchez and Michael Plassmeyer could be options in the future.
But the best option could be on the way soon – Griff McGarry.
The No. 3-ranked prospect is slowly working his way up through the Minor Leagues.
“I’ve learned how important it is to play where your feet are, be where your feet are, keep your head in the right spot,” McGarry told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Keeping your head in the right spot is important. I’m just focusing on what’s in front of me.”
That’s a very mature outlook.
McGarry’s arsenal of pitches has never been questioned. It’s more of matter of command. That has been his biggest obstacle in the Minors.
When McGarry throws his bullpen sessions, he’s doing all he can to treat them like game situations.
Because his Major League debut could be happening sooner rather than later.
“In a bullpen, if you’re cruising and throwing each pitch where you want to throw it with the right movement, a lot of times it can get pretty fast,” McGarry told the Inquirer. “And you’re just cruising and everything feels good, but it’s not always game realistic. So I just started treating it as if I’m in game. Get the ball back, take a deep breath. Not just rushing back into it.”
McGarry has tossed 9.2 innings in four games at Double-A Reading with a 1.86 ERA. The goal now is to stretch him out and keep getting his pitch count higher.
The Phillies can afford to be somewhat patient but they’re in desperate need a solid fifth starter.
Keep your eye on McGarry. The answer could be on the way to Citizens Bank Park as summer approaches.
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