Today, the Philadelphia Phillies have (finally) issued a statement in regards to Aaron Fitt of Baseball America's Wednesday report, which stated the Phillies turned in unsigned draft pick, LHP Ben Wetzler, to the NCAA for using an agent. Wetzler was drafted in the fifth round of last June's draft and both sides were unable to agree to a contract.
Their brief statement was as followed:
“The Phillies did participate in the NCAA investigation and a ruling has been issued. We believe it is inappropriate to comment further on either the negotiation with the player or the action taken by the NCAA.”
Because of the incident, Wetzler was suspended 11 games by the NCAA, which is one-fifth of their season. He was suspended on the grounds of inappropriate connections with a sports agent, which is outlawed by the NCAA.
The Phillies also accused sixth-round pick Jason Monda from Washington State for the same actions, however he was cleared by the NCAA Thursday to play, a day before college baseball's season got underway.
Wetzler will be eligible to resume action on March 3, but that will be far from the end of the reprocussions on the Phillies' side. A team that needs to replenish their farm system, many colleges around the nation are considering banning any Phillies scout to attend their games.
Why did the Phillies wait nearly three days, just to barely respond in regarding to their detrimental actions for these college students' future as professionals?
This could get ugly.
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Matt Rappa is a contributor to Philliedelphia. Follow him on Twitter @mattrappa
