Elvis Araujo pitches against the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, en route to a win. (Photo: Philliedelphia/Frank Klose)
One of the bright spots in the early going of Spring Training has been Phillies left-handed reliever Elvis Araujo. In five and one-thirds innings, Araujo has allowed just one run, while showing a fastball with life. But with many left-handed relievers in the mix for a spot in the Phillies' bullpen, Araujo just could not crack the Phillies' roster.
Jake Kaplan of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports that the Phillies have optioned Araujo to minor league camp. While the Phillies signed Araujo to a major league contract, he has yet to see time in the major leagues. Thus, the Phillies have the option for a minor league option.
The Phillies were one of many teams who were interested in Araujo after an impressive winter league season in the Venezuelan Winter League. Araujo remains an intriguing arm to keep an eye on in the minor leagues this year, for a future with the Phillies. For now, Jake Diekman, Mario Hollands, and Andy Oliver are all potential left-handed arms who will make the Opening Day roster.
