Philadelphia Phillies midseason report card: Grading the bullpen

Jun 25, 2021; New York City, New York, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Archie Bradley (23) at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2021; New York City, New York, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Archie Bradley (23) at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
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Philadelphia Phillies Connor Brogdon
Jul 7, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Connor Brogdon (75) throws against the Chicago Cubs during the sixth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Connor Brogdon: C

For the most part, Connor Brogdon has been relatively solid this season. He’s got a 4.19 ERA and a 1.223 WHIP, which are both somewhat respectable numbers for someone who’s only made 46 appearances in the major leagues. However, there was still a hope heading into the season that Brogdon would be able to take a significant leap forward in 2021, a leap that would solidify him as a high-leverage arm for Joe Girardi. That leap has yet to happen, hence the “C” grade here at the All-Star break.

Bailey Falter: B

Seemingly appearing from out of nowhere, Bailey Falter has been a very pleasant surprise for the Phillies this season. His ability to stretch out as a long-reliever allowed Girardi to move Ranger Suarez into the closer job full-time. Falter should expect to play a rather large role for the team during the second half of the season.

Enyel De Los Santos: F

Enyel De Los Santos is bad at baseball.

David Hale: F

David Hale is bad at baseball, and currently unemployed.

Neftali Feliz: F?

I don’t even know what to make of the Neftali Feliz experience. He had two abysmal high-leverage outings immediately after being called up from AAA, and was promptly released. He’s currently with the Dodgers.

Christopher Sanchez, Ramon Rosso, J.D. Hammer, JoJo Romero: N/A

None of these guys made/have made enough appearances to earn a midseason grade. Christopher Sanchez and J.D. Hammer are two players who could see some considerable work with the big league club during the second half of the season.