1- Would the Phillies consider another Lorenzen-type trade? If they want to consider going six man for August, that could be a possibility. Biggest issue second half is to manage usage, especially Ranger. They need to ensure staff is refreshed and reset for playoffs. They could go Walker/Phillips but that totally depends on Phillips and whether Turnbull can get back into the mix sooner than later.
2- There was a lot of consideration earlier for Jansen, but Boston is in the hunt for a playoff spot. Every team will be mindful of pen help. Jansen has pitched well first half, he would have been a nice piece. I am not sure he is available at this point. They will add someone out there.
3- One other thing not discussed at all is batting order. The Phillies really liked L-R throughout the lineup. 1-4 is now locked. Bohm is set at 4 and I would be shocked if he moves in the lineup. I don’t see Stott at 5 given his struggles and I don’t think Topper is going to stack Bohm, JT, and Nick. I think it might be Bohm, JT, Stott, Nick, Marsh, Rojas.
4- A lot of chatter about a RH bat in the OF which means they don't want Marsh to face LHP but they need to consider defensive ramifications. The guy from Oakland put forth a good audition this weekend but he is more a DH than outfielder. Marsh is putting a decent year together, but there seems to be momentum to find an OF bat.
5- Nobody cares about their draft but I scratched my head on that one. Taking an old high school hitter should never be part of the plan.
A first half that could not have been scripted better. Let’s get the boys healthy and ready for the second half!