Friday, June 18, 2010

Mathieson is a Potential Sleeper

Lost in the weeds of the Phillies recent struggles and series with the Yankees was the call-up of RHP Scott Mathieson, a 26-year-old former prospect who is coming off three arm surgeries (including 2 Tommy John's).

If Mathieson can stay healthy and fulfill his potential, the Phillies could have themselves a very solid mid-season pick-up w/out needing to pull the trigger on a trade.

Mathieson enjoyed success at Lehigh Valley this season, going 2-2 with a 2.43 ERA and 12 saves in 25 games. His fastball is easily his best pitch, and it reportedly has remained in the mid to high-90s despite the surgeries. It is his secondary pitches, however, that are less dependable (slider and change-up, in this case). This, of course, is a concern, as major league hitters will feast on a fastball if they know it's coming.

Nevertheless, Mathieson's return will be interesting to watch.

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