Philadelphia Phillies escapes left-handed with a surprising $ 10 million signing of Max Kepler, while whispering the squad is intensified in the post-season

Team strategy in the low season

Philadelphia had a constant course after a season with 95 victories and an NL East title in the low season. The focus of maintaining the core group seems to be based on a proven ability to control the requirements of a long regular season, despite a post -season that ended in four games during the NLDS. A calm approach to change was selected, with the room to think about why the post -season was not achieved.

A risky investment in the outdoor field

A single considerable step was carried out by signing the outfield Max Kepler for a one-year contract worth $ 10 million. Kepler’s placement as the placement of Kepler, when the left field player is hindered by recurring injury problems, represents a remarkable risk. It is a position that he did not play at a professional level, which pronounces valid concerns about his willingness to defend and overall in an already fragile outdoor field.

Constitutional weight and defensive challenges

Observations indicate an unbalanced line -up that is strongly dependent on left -handed bats. With Kepler, Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Bryson Stott and Brandon Marsh, which is currently mainly positioned from the left side, the lack of a right -handed hit becomes obvious. Additional players such as Kody Clemens and Switch Hitting Catcher Rafael Marchan contribute to the left tendency to swing. This configuration raises concerns about the left -hander, a challenge that recognized on the opening day.

An opening test

The first game of the season has emphasized the effects of this strategic choice. Philadelphia’s line -up fought deeply in a dominant left -handed pitcher. For six shutout -ininnings, the opposing pitcher delivered an impressive performance, which is defined by 13 strikeouts and a single goal, without the balls to be seen in the air – and tested the ability of the Phillies to adapt. While the team finally achieved a 7-3 win in additional innings, the early difficulties in the agreement of left-handed pitching set up a serious deficiency.

Look ahead

In the development season, quick adjustments will require, especially when combating the overrepresentation of the left -hander in the line -up. The need to infuse right -handed power could be urgent if there are further challenges against left -handed people. Current strategies may have to be re -evaluated and the prerequisites for potential squad movements create a more balanced offensive approach if the team urges success after the season.