Philadelphia Phillies acquisition of Wilton Lopez doubtful following his physical exam-MLB Update
Philadelphia Phillies were about to agree on a trade with Houston Astros involving Wilton Lopez the other day. However, as soon as the doctor reported an issue with his elbow, the Phillies have stepped back.
Pitcher, Lopez was earlier considered a suitable candidate to become part of their bullpen by Philadelphia.
They are apprehensive at the moment as they are not willing to conclude a trade deal with the Astros, due to the latest revelation by the physical examination report.
The Phillies’ bullpen struggled immensely during the last season. Their relievers cost them defeats from those situations where they were heading toward wins. Time-and-again, dominant shows on the mound by their starters were ruined by the pitchers that
came late in the innings.
Poor performances by relievers forced their management to call young arms from the Minor League in the latter half of the season. That move stabilised the bullpen to some extent as better shows started to come off the pitchers.
It was due to the same reason perhaps that the Phillies’ overall winning percentage increased significantly in the last few months before the conclusion of the season.
Offseason has provided the Phillies a best opportunity to address issues with their bullpen. In order to avoid what happened in 2012 season, they can consider all the options to make sure loop-holes are fixed prior to the beginning of Spring Training.
Pursuit of Lopez was an attempt from their part to strengthen the pitching department. If the trade took place, the Phillies would have given away some of their players including Vance Worley to Astros.
Worley is one of those hurlers that disappointed Philadelphia in the last season. He could not reward the faith of the officials when he earned opportunities to throw the innings.
Deadlock in the possible trade of him to Astros might mean that he plays for Philadelphia for another season.
It may be a blessing in disguise for the Phillies that he has not been sent to the Astros. It is possible that he turns out to be excellent at the mound next year and plays a major role in the team’s victories.
Only time will tell which organisation is the beneficiary of the fact that the deal has not taken place between Philadelphia and the Astros.
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