The Philadelphia Phillies made a big name signing. However, it isn't likely to thrill Phillies fans. The team reached a one year deal with Dontrelle Willis. Once upon a time, Willis was regarded as one of the top young pitchers in baseball. In 2005, Willis won 22 games and finished second in the Cy Young voting. However, his career has been on the downslope since then. As a Phillies fan, I know the team isn't getting the same pitcher that was that good in 2005. However, I think Willis could wind up being a steal for this team.
What is interesting about the Willis signing is that the Phillies will ask him to come out of the bullpen. Throughout his career, Willis has been a starter and only made a couple of relief appearances. That said, this could be the perfect role for him. The Phillies needed a left handed arm coming out of the bullpen and they could wind up with a good one here. In addition, they have a guy that could become a slot starter if needed. That is not a bad thing to have for a bargain price.
Can Willis find success in the bullpen? That remains to be seen. He has really been shaky since that memorable 2005 season. He made 13 starts for the Cincinnati Reds in 2011 and went 1-6 with a 5.00 ERA. Those aren't exactly inspiring numbers. However, the Phillies aren't going to rely on Willis to be a starter. In becoming a relief pitcher, Willis will take on an entirely new role with the team. I think there is high potential for him in this role. The change of pace could help him find his stride again. In addition, Willis is excellent against lefties. If nothing else, the Phillies can bring him in spot situations.
Overall, I think this is a nice move for the club. As long as Willis is committed to his new role, he will be successful. If it doesn't work, the Phillies aren't really losing a whole lot. Ruben Amaro knew the team needed to make adjustments in the bullpen. This move certainly addresses that need. Willis will turn 30 before the season starts. He should still have enough in the tank to take advantage of this opportunity.
Guy can rake!!!!!
What is interesting about the Willis signing is that the Phillies will ask him to come out of the bullpen. Throughout his career, Willis has been a starter and only made a couple of relief appearances. That said, this could be the perfect role for him. The Phillies needed a left handed arm coming out of the bullpen and they could wind up with a good one here. In addition, they have a guy that could become a slot starter if needed. That is not a bad thing to have for a bargain price.
Can Willis find success in the bullpen? That remains to be seen. He has really been shaky since that memorable 2005 season. He made 13 starts for the Cincinnati Reds in 2011 and went 1-6 with a 5.00 ERA. Those aren't exactly inspiring numbers. However, the Phillies aren't going to rely on Willis to be a starter. In becoming a relief pitcher, Willis will take on an entirely new role with the team. I think there is high potential for him in this role. The change of pace could help him find his stride again. In addition, Willis is excellent against lefties. If nothing else, the Phillies can bring him in spot situations.
Overall, I think this is a nice move for the club. As long as Willis is committed to his new role, he will be successful. If it doesn't work, the Phillies aren't really losing a whole lot. Ruben Amaro knew the team needed to make adjustments in the bullpen. This move certainly addresses that need. Willis will turn 30 before the season starts. He should still have enough in the tank to take advantage of this opportunity.
Guy can rake!!!!!
