Philadelphia Phillies starting rotation for 2022: What we can expect
By Tim Boyle
Phillies fifth starter spot could go to Hans Crouse
Unless the Phillies make a move before Opening Day, there’s a good possibility they begin 2022 with Hans Crouse as their fifth starter. I don’t hate the idea. It’s more palatable than watching a Matt Moore or Chase Anderson struggle through a few weeks.
Crouse did perform well in the minors last year, combing to go 5-4 with a 3.28 ERA in 85 innings at Double-A and Triple-A. At only 23, he’s a young arm the Phillies will hope turns into something pretty good, making a little quicker than the usual timeline will allow.
Crouse did get a chance to start two games in 2021 with weak results. Officially 0-2 in as many opportunities with a 5.14 ERA, Crouse probably will need to impress the coaching staff in Spring Training to earn his way into the rotation.
There are still minor league options to move Crouse to the minors and possibly bring in another arm. Trades are always possible. So are free agent signings for the few remaining quality starters out there. More seasoning against Triple-A batters might be what works best for this young kid. And even if it takes a whole year for him to get back to the big leagues, I’ll remain optimistic about what he can do in Philadelphia.
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The state of the Phillies rotation has more good than bad. There is a ton of potential in this group of five. And with Eflin hopefully returning midseason, reinforcements are already on the way.