Philadelphia Phillies: Three players who could surprise in 2020
By David Esser
Taking a look at three Philadelphia Phillies set to surprise everyone in 2020.
With the 2020 MLB season right around the corner, all eyes are slowly being shifted towards the Philadelphia Phillies and what they could bring to the table in 2020. Fans are expecting big years from the usual suspects like Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto and Aaron Nola, while also anxiously awaiting the debut of newly added players like Didi Gregorius and Zack Wheeler.
However, every year there are always a few “under the radar” players who pop in a given season. Last year the Phillies saw above average performances from the likes of Adam Haseley and Brad Miller, who could be that “sleeper” name during this year’s shortened season?
Is it finally time for Vince Velasquez to break through?
It seems like an annual tradition at this point, but Vince Velasquez is genuinely looking like he’s ready to produce at a steady level in 2020. While it was just an intrasquad game, Velasquez looked seriously impressive during his start on Tuesday night. He showcased a newly developed cutter and some better controlled offspeed stuff that was even fooling the likes of JT Realmuto.
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Velasquez has really struggled in recent years, there’s no denying that. His career ERA with the Philadelphia Phillies sits at a 4.70 and he’s yet to produce a ten win season. On top of that, he was demoted to a bullpen role during last year’s campaign that seemed to damage his ego a tad.
A lot has been said about the Phillies new coaching staff (Joe Girardi and Bryan Price in specific), and they have been routinely positive when speaking about Velasquez this offseason. The Phillies need someone to start a few games until top pitching prospect Spencer Howard is ready, and will likely need someone to start another few games when Zack Wheeler has his child.
Considering how he’s looked during recent showings, and with how the staff is talking about him, Velasquez could finally be in the position for a half decent year.