Most Philadelphia Phillies' fans, if given the option, would gladly choose to skip the rest of the team's Spring Training slate if it meant the regular season could start sooner. Monday's game however, isn't the type of game fans of the team will want to miss.
Manager Pete Mackanin told a group of reporters, which included MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, that the team will decide on their No. 5 starter on Monday, the same day that Vince Velasquez is projected to start against the Toronto Blue Jays.
"We're real close to making the decision," manager Pete Mackanin said after Sunday's 5-1 loss to the Red Sox at JetBlue Park. "We'll decide [Monday] and let you know."
In four Spring Training games, Velasquez has struck out 16, while posting a 3.21 ERA. Adam Morgan, who made 15 starts for the Phillies in 2015, has a 2-0 record with a 2.00 ERA in three games this spring.
If the Phillies elect to give the position to Velasquez, it is believed that Morgan would probably open the season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Velasquez, who Zolecki noted is probably the favorite for the spot, has the type of stuff that could make him a strong late-inning reliever, but he doesn't seem likely to begin the season in the bullpen if he doesn't get the spot. So the loser of the competition will not only not be in the starting rotation to open the season, but will probably not begin the season in the major leagues.
Due to injuries, under-performances and trades, both will probably see north of 15 starts this season for the big league club, so losing the competition wouldn't be the end of the world. Given that both have been impressive this spring, it would be a tough break, though.
Tim Kelly (@TimKellySports) is the Managing Editor of Philliedelphia.com, focusing on news and features.
