Philadelphia Baseball History

This spring, Phillies right handed pitcher Vince Velasquez finds himself in a fierce competition for the last spot in the Phillies rotation for the start of the 2020 season.  This is familiar territory for Velasquez, as he has battled, not only in spring training, but also during the season, for a spot in the Phillies rotation since joining the team in 2015.  His strong right arm, which allows his to throw fastballs upwards of 97 mph, has given him an advantage at times.  But, his inconsistency, lack of command, and high pitch count have all contributed to his inability to solidly claim a starting role coming into the 2020 spring training season. Hailing from Montclair, California, Velasquez was drafted right out of high school, where he was a star shortstop and switch hitter.  Velasquez had pitched on occasion with Garey High School in Pamona, California.  His high school career showed the Houston Astros that he was a versatile athlete, prompting the Astros...

The Phillies ended the 2017 season with a bang, defeating the Mets 11-0. In winning their final game, the Phillies have given their fans several storylines to follow going into 2018.  One of the biggest questions for 2017 was whether Maikel Franco would step up his game, living up to his potential and the fans' expectations. For most of the season, that question was answered in the negative. But General Manager Matt Klentak refused to give up on Franco, asserting that he has too much talent.  Franco's late season surge may have proven Klentak right. After hovering at a little over .200 for most of the season, Franco increased his average to .275 for the month of September. In his last five games, he hit 4 home runs and drove in 7 runs, which included a three-run blast in the last game of the season. Franco ended the season leading the team in home runs, with 24.  If nothing else, Franco's late season performance has made a statement that he is not ready to fade ...