John Lannan inks one-year agreement with Philadelphia Phillies, according to sources-MLB Update
John Lannan has joined the Philadelphia Phillies after agreeing to a one-year agreement with them.
His performance in the upcoming season can determine whether he stays with the Phillies beyond 2013 or not.
He has been playing for the Washington Nationals since 2007. During the on-going offseason, he was non-tendered by them.
While being in Washington, he was unable to find permanent place in their rotation, due to a fierce competition there.
It was extremely difficult for Lannan to secure his name in a rotation which consists of the likes of Gio Gonzalez, Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann.
For the same reason, he played for the Minor League largely for as long as he stayed with Washington. He was used more as a stopgap measure than anyone who is relied upon in all circumstances.
Time and again, he expressed his grievances for not being allowed opportunities in the Majors.
The Nationals could sign Lannan for 2013, considering the fact their starting pitcher Edwin Jackson struggled immensely in the last season. For example, he might have been named as replacement for him for the upcoming season.
However, the Nationals did not pay attention to him, perceiving Lannan as unsuited to their rotation.
There prevails a notion that Washington boasts arguably the strongest rotation in the National League. Lannan is not the kind of hurler who could live up to this reputation.
Although he is a competent major league starting pitcher, the Nationals wanted someone, who could spearhead their pitching staff. Eventually, they chose Dan Haren as the one to lead their rotation.
His immense experience in the big league makes Washington pin high hopes on him. Haren knows the expectations of the club from him. He is ready to guide young arms in the Nationals’ rotation and help them develop skills.
As far as Lannan is concerned, the Phillies will be looking to see him throw at his potential while playing for them. He can take the Phillies as platform to launch his Major League campaign in a new fashion.
Certainly, Lannan will go all out to prove his mettle and make sure the Phillies are impressed and consider him for their future campaigns.
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