The 2016 Phillies deserve to be graded on a curve. The team lost 99 painful-to-watch games in 2015. This season, however, after a 25-19 start, the Phillies have come back to Earth, standing at fourth place in National League East. Still, this franchise is in full-blown rebuild mode, so that’s something to keep in mind as we grade all parts of this year’s roster:
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Ownership and Front Office: Andy MacPhail and his front office set a clear plan this year, letting the young guys play and setting the stage for 2017 and beyond. GM Matt Klentak deserves a perfect score for that Ken Giles trade, getting back potential ace Vince Velasquez and three other pitching prospects. He also signed few low-risk, high-reward vets who could be traded before the trade deadline for some value. Plus, there’s more good news for Phillies fans: Controlling partner John S. Middleton has the money to spend, and will spend it once the team starts winning. You can’t say that about most of the rival owners.
Grade: A
Pitchers: Pitching is a strength for the Phillies this year; Jerad Eickhoff has statistically been the team’s best starter. Despite five bad starts to end his first half, Aaron Nola throws strikes and looks poised to be a solid MLB starter. Velasquez has the best upside of them all, though. Veteran Jeremy Hellickson has kept the team in lots of games and could bring back a return before the trade deadline. The bullpen has been a huge surprise, with Hector Neris setting up well for closer Jeanmar Gomez.
Grade: B+
Infielders: Ryan Howard sadly would not be on this roster if not for his bloated contract. He simply has been the worst starting first baseman in the league. Tommy Joseph has shown some flashes but may not be a long-term solution. Up the middle has been poor offensively; both Freddy Galvis and Cesar Hernandez are playing like backups. Maikel Franco can chase bad pitches in stretches and has shown less range at third base than in 2015. Still, the 22-year-old is on pace to hit 30 home runs and 90-100 RBIs this year.
Grade: D
Outfielders: All-star Odubel Herrera has performed like an elite lead-off hitter. The defense in all three spots has been solid with the help of Herrera, Peter Bourjos, Tyler Goeddel and Cody Asche. Still, this crew lacks any power, particularly in the corners.
Grade: C-
Catchers: Cameron Rupp has hit with power and shown an ability to throw out runners. The pitchers have performed better than expected, so both Rupp and veteran backup Carlos Ruiz should take some credit for that. Neither have elite range behind the plate.
Grade: B
Pete Mackanin: The long-time bench coach has been a calming influence for a team loaded with unproven youngsters and imperfect parts. Fluent in Spanish, he has been able to connect with Franco, Herrera and the largely Latino roster. So far, he has used small ball tactics to squeeze out runs and many close wins. Hopefully, he doesn’t overwork Neris and other bullpen arms.
Grade: A
For more Phillies commentary and analysis, follow Michael on Twitter @mcollazo215.
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