The Phillies started making some of their 2016 roster decisions today as the team officially named their fifth starter in their opening starting rotation. Adam Morgan and newcomer Vince Velasquez were battling the for the final spot. Looking at the 2016 Spring Training numbers, the one with slightly better numbers did not win.
Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports:
Vince Velasquez wins the No. 5 starter competition.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) March 28, 2016
What this means at the moment for left-handed starter Adam Morgan is not clear at this time.
Morgan was 2-0 with a 2.00 earned run average in Grapefruit League action in three starts. These numbers do not include Thursday's start against the Atlanta Braves that was rained out in which Morgan pitched three scoreless innings. Morgan is coming off of a surprise rookie season in which he went 5-7 with a 4.48 earned run average.
Velasquez had slightly weaker numbers this Spring, posting a 3.21 earned run average and a 0-0 record. Looking beyond the numbers, Velasquez struggled with his command at times. However, Velasquez demonstrated a lively fastball that shows great promise going forward.
This move had mostly to do with upside going forward. While Morgan peaked at the number five Phillies prospect in their system, a shoulder injury seemed to remove the "prospect" tag from Morgan. The Phillies likely feel that Velasquez will have a higher ceiling than Morgan. Having depth in 2016 will be important for the Phillies. Having Morgan around to start in case of injury is something the Phillies desperately needed last season.
The Phillies decided that left-handed relievers Elvis Araujo and Bobby LaFromboise would not make the Opening Day roster, so there may be room in the bullpen for Morgan.
UPDATE: The Phillies have sent Morgan to the minor leagues. Either Rule 5 pick Daniel Stumpf or non-roster invitee James Russell will make the Phillies as their second left-hander beyond Brett Oberholtzer.
