Jerome Williams began the season as a starting pitcher for the Phillies. After a 4-10 start boasting a disgraceful 6.13 ERA, Pete Mackanin decided to move Williams to the bullpen where he was much more effective. In 12 games as a reliever, his ERA plummeted from 6.13 to 3.52, his WHIP fell from 1.656 to 1.304, and his batting average against dropped from .323 to .268.
There were 141 pitchers in 2015 that completed at least 100 innings. Of those pitchers, Williams ranked 23rd in pitches hit with medium or hard speed. He was 24th in terms of most pitches thrown outside the strike zone and 30th in line drive percentage. In other words, when Williams does throw strikes, hitters are squaring the ball up.
If the Phillies were to resign Jerome Williams this offseason, it would have to be strictly as a bullpen arm. However, no one should be shocked if the Phillies allow him to walk away.
Aaron Harang posted a 6-15 record with a 4.86 ERA in 29 starts for the Phillies this season. The 37-year-old was signed to a one-year contract prior to the season and immediately began to exceed expectations. Harang unveiled a 2.51 and 1.62 ERA in the months of April and May, respectively. His success didn’t last long though. His ERA from June on was over 6.80 with injuries partially responsible.
With Harang’s age climbing closer to 40, it’d only be rational to think there’s not much left in the tank. According to Jake Kaplan of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Harang is contemplating retiring as soon as this offseason. Regardless of his decision, it’d be a surprise to see him in red pinstripes next season.
