As the MLB calendar turns the page into June, contenders are gearing up for the pivotal trade deadline at the end of July. This period is a whirlwind of roster moves for most teams, and the Philadelphia Phillies are no exception. Looking back at the summer of 2022, the Phillies made some memorable cuts, parting ways with players like Jeurys Familia, Didi Gregorius, and Odúbel Herrera. This year, a couple of names are floating around as likely candidates for departure as we approach the deadline.
Let’s dive into three players who might not be donning a Phillies uniform much longer:
Carlos Hernández, RHP
Carlos Hernández is a relatively fresh face in Philadelphia, arriving via waivers from the Kansas City Royals just before Opening Day. His tenure with the Phillies, though, hasn’t been stellar. With a 6.14 ERA and a sky-high 1.91 WHIP stretched over 20 1/3 innings, his performance leaves quite a bit to be desired. Command has been a significant issue, highlighted by 13 walks in 22 innings. While Hernández boasts an electric pitch arsenal, the consistency and control haven’t followed, curbing his reliability out of the bullpen. As the Phillies prepare to bolster their bullpen, Hernández’s days with the team could be numbered.
Daniel Robert, RHP
Joining the Phillies more recently than Hernández, Daniel Robert came over in a minor transaction with the Texas Rangers at the start of May. Unfortunately, his introduction at the MLB level has been rocky, posting a startling 13.50 ERA and surrendering three walks in just 2/3 of an inning. Serving briefly as the 27th man during a doubleheader against the Cardinals, his struggles continued, leading to a return ticket to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Albeit with better stats in the minors, Robert’s path back to stabilizing his major league career is a steep uphill climb, and it wouldn’t surprise many if the Phillies decide to move on from him.
Brett de Geus, RHP
Brett de Geus rounds out our list, exemplifying the challenges of establishing bullpen depth. Much like his counterparts, de Geus has dealt with command issues. His debut for the Phillies was a shaky one, featuring three walks and a run over two innings. A 7.39 ERA and a 1.72 WHIP over his tenure in the majors speak volumes about his inconsistencies. Brought in from the Miami Marlins in early April, de Geus still has minor league options but will need to tighten his game to avoid being on the chopping block in Philly’s quest for reliable relief arms at the deadline.
As trade talks heat up, the Phillies will undoubtedly be active, looking to fortify areas of weakness, particularly in their bullpen. These three pitchers could very well be among the casualties as the front office maneuvers to stay competitive in a tough division race.
