Being 30 games under .500 and 19 games out of the National League East, the Philadelphia Phillies surely have their eyes set on next season, as they try to rebuild the franchise and return to their not far removed dominance in the league.
The hiring of eventual team president Andy MacPhail suggests a new age of Phillies' baseball that will begin sometime after the final out is recorded for the 2015 campaign.
In the meantime, under his advisory role to current president Pat Gillick, it is important for MacPhail to consider who his manager will be moving forward, as well as other front office personnel. Also, it is essential to continue looking for talent made available either in the free agency pool, or through trade.
One name that became available this afternoon is long-time New York Yankees' right handed reliever, Joba Chamberlain.
Chamberlain, 29, was given his unconditional release Friday by the Detroit Tigers, after garnering no interest from other teams on the waiver wire.
The nine-year veteran was designated for assignment on July 3, meaning the Tigers had 10 days to either trade, release, or place Chamberlain on waivers. Chamberlain likely cleared waivers today, and was released with minimal to no interest of a trade coming to fruition with other clubs in the next few days.
In 30 appearances overall this season with the Tigers, 22.0 innings, Chamberlain held a 4.09 ERA by allowing 15 runs (10 earned) on 32 hits and five walks.
Three of Chamberlain's five surrendered 2015 home runs were given up in his second-to-last appearance with Brad Ausmus' team, on July 1 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Lincoln, Nebraska-native signed to a one-year deal worth $1 million back on February 24.
Analyzing from afar, Chamberlain joining the Phillies' bullpen likely wouldn't improve upon the culture or performance of the bullpen considerably, although it would be interesting to see how he throws in comparison to Jeanmar Gomez, Luis Garcia, and alike.
With the 74 games remaining on the season, there are still plenty of innings to try out arms and explore who will be a significant contributor to the team in upcoming seasons. Being cognizant to what is available on the market, by exploring with options not just inside but outside of the organization, is definitely a must.
Perhaps giving Chamberlain a look in red pinstripes wouldn't be a bad idea for the (29-59) Phillies.
Matt Rappa (@mattrappasports) is managing editor of Philliedelphia.com.
