The Philadelphia Phillies have seen a strong start to the season melt into a concerning five-game losing streak.
After a sweep at the hands of the lowly Pittsburgh Pirates, the Phillies are suddenly faced with some surprising roster questions if they hope to get back on track and capitalize on a closing championship window. Ultimately, it could be time for some big changes.
One challenge for a Phillies team in need of a significant shakeup is the fact that the roster consists of so many highly-paid veterans. The team cannot realistically make a significant move involving Nick Castellanos or JT Realmuto, for instance.
But long-time outfielder Brandon Marsh is a different story. As concerns about the team’s recent performance and his production at the plate mount, the Phillies could opt for a surprising move.
“Demoting Marsh to the minors would be extreme; it could be one gambit to deliver a message to a sagging offense,” Matt Gelb suggested for The Athletic. “Marsh has been at or below replacement level for most of the season. The Phillies would be justified in seeking a ‘reset’ for the 27-year-old outfielder.”
Marsh has been in the minors once already this season as he recovered from an injury. But so far this year he has slashed just . 216/.323/.315 with the big-league club. A demotion would make room for a call up, give Johan Rojas more at-bats and offer Marsh an opportunity to find his swing before the playoff hunt heats up.
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At this point, demoting a long-time roster staple like Marsh would be a fairly extreme solution to the offensive woes. But given the team’s struggles amid this skid, extreme solutions have to be under consideration.
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