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Philadelphia Phillies: 8 players to keep an eye on during Spring Training

By David Esser

LAKELAND, FL - MARCH 05: Matt Moore #51 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on March 5, 2019 in Lakeland, Florida. The Blue Jays defeated the Tigers 5-2. (Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB photos via Getty Images)
LAKELAND, FL - MARCH 05: Matt Moore #51 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Spring Training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on March 5, 2019 in Lakeland, Florida. The Blue Jays defeated the Tigers 5-2. (Photo by Mark Cunningham/MLB photos via Getty Images) /
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Philadelphia Phillies Hector Rondon
Aug 25, 2020; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Hector Rondon against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Hector Rondon, RHP

As I’m writing this, the Philadelphia Phillies have noticeably not signed as many free agent relievers as we all initially expected. They’ve acquired a few arms via trade, but landing Archie Bradley has been their only significant free agency addition thus far.

However, the quiet move to bring in Hector Rondon on a minor-league contract with an invite to Spring Training could be something that pays off huge dividends for the Phillies this season.

Prior to the 2020 season, Rondon was one of the more consistent right-handed relievers in all of baseball. His ERA consistently hovered in the mid to low 3.00s, and he pitched in some high-leverage spots for both the Cubs and Astros over the years.

While his 2020 campaign was definitely brutal (7.65 ERA), he’ll be just 33 years of age by the time the 2021 season kicks off. Considering just how much help the Phillies bullpen will need this offseason, Rondon should be a favorite to crack the team’s Opening Day roster – should he have a productive Spring Training.

If Rondon can return to his previous 2019 form (3.71 ERA), he’d be a welcome addition to a Phillies bullpen that would benefit from a veteran with postseason experience.

Definitely a name worth keeping an eye on this spring.

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