Philadelphia Phillies: 3 positive takeaways from the season so far

Philadelphia Phillies reliever Seranthony Dominguez is back and pitching at a high level.

Seranthony Dominguez saved 16 games for the 2018 Phillies and looked like he could be on his way to becoming the team’s closer. Injuries got in the way of his progress and Dominguez would toss only 25.2 innings from 2019-2021.

Now back in the team’s bullpen in 2022, he’s looking great again. Dominguez is averaging more than a strikeout per inning and preventing runs like any skipper would hope for from one of their best high-leverage relievers. The Phillies went out and bought three veteran free agents this offseason to try to mend their failing bullpen. As it turns out, they already had a quality arm in Dominguez sitting around and ready to go.

Dominguez might possibly be the most important player in the Phillies bullpen this year—especially if you think they’ll be waving the white flag. Corey Knebel, Brad Hand, and Jeurys Familia are all likely headed to free agency again this winter if not traded beforehand. This will leave the Phillies with having to makeover their relief corps yet again. Dominguez, however, should remain with them and in a big relief role.

Dominguez has proven himself trustworthy in a bullpen without many arms to put any faith in. Proving he is healthy is one part of his 2022 mission. The other is to be effective. Thus far, he has exceeded in both areas.