Bryce Harper Makes It Clear That Spencer Howard Should Be On The Phillies NOW

One of the biggest issues the Philadelphia Phillies had last season was starting pitching. After #1 starter, Aaron Nola, the Phillies struggled to get solid, even average, constant pitching behind him.



In the offseason, the Phillies helped this issue with a major splash. Signing former Mets pitcher Zach Wheeler to a 5-year deal to be the #2 starter.

 

But, behind Nola & Wheeler, the Phillies still have the same group that only combined for 29-35 record last season. Which lead many to believe the rotation would be an open competition for any pitcher in the Phillies system. Including #1 pitching prospect, Spencer Howard.

 

Since breaking onto the scene in the Arizona Fall League last year, Howard has been on the fast-track for the majors. With his high 90s fastball & high-spinning off-speed pitches, Howard has been really impressing in camp.

 

Howard’s eye-catching stuff caught the eye of new Phillies manager Joe Girardi back in March. But, his performances is what has really impressed Girardi now.



“When I’m going to look at a player, it’s going to be performance. That’s what I’m going to judge a player on if I think he’s ready to go or not; There are other things that come into play, but I don’t make those decisions. I’m going to judge his performance.”

 

While being only 23-years-old, his stuff is the same if not better than some of the other guys he is competing against. The only real difference is his matureness, not having pitched above Double A Reading before.

 

However, that did not stop Phillies star outfielder, Bryce Harper, from giving Howard his vote of confidence.

 

 

In the clip, Bryce says “if Spencer Howard isn’t starting in our rotation by game six in New York against the New York Yankees, there’s a problem. That’s all I’m saying.”  Harper went on to clarify why the reason for the 6th game. “I think its 5-days and you get an extra year out of him. So, he’d be my #6 starter in Yankee Stadium.”

 

With Bryce on this one. Can sign me up for Howard being on the Phillies this year. Do you agree?



By Brandon Sommermann | July 17, 2020