The Phillies have now gotten this rebuilding process underway, dealing Rollins and Byrd for three young pitchers. Replenishing the weak farm system with young pitching with upside was Amaro's goal from the start and it seems like he is getting his way thus far.
With the loss of Marlon Byrd in right field, it leaves a void in the outfield in both corner positions. Revere seems to be solidified in center for now, while Dom Brown could be headed back to his natural spot.
After talking to Ruben-seems Dom Brown is headed back to right field. Sizemore, Frenchy, etc potential options for LF
— Kevin Cooney (@KevinCooney) December 31, 2014
With Byrd gone, Dom Brown may shift back to RF. “It’s something I have to discuss with Ryno, but it’s certainly a possibility," Amaro said.
— Jake Kaplan (@jakemkaplan) December 31, 2014
Obviously, the Phillies without Marlon will leave a huge absence of run production in the lineup, despite the number of strikeouts he had. The Phils have only aquired pitching in their deals and will have to find other ways to score runs this upcoming season, but it is the pitching depth that Amaro continues to preach.
Amaro on power: “We don’t have much. We’re going to have to create runs in a different way. We don’t have a ton of power (Ctd)
— Kevin Cooney (@KevinCooney) December 31, 2014
Amaro: “But these moves are being on the long term. The biggest needs is upper level starting pitching….
— Kevin Cooney (@KevinCooney) December 31, 2014
The Phillies did pick up a power bat in Odubel Herrera in the Rule 5 draft and the Byrd departure could certainly open up some time for him to get some big league experience. That is really it in terms of offensive help from the offseason.
Right now it seems like a platoon of Sizemore and Franceour in left is likely while Brown could shift back to right field. Of course, that could all complicate if the Phillies don't part ways with Ryan Howard, who would open a spot for Darin Ruf at first. If Howard remains, Ruf could easily be added to the outfield mix.
