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Realizing that aside from J.C. Romero, the Phillies have a weakness in their left-handed relief corps, one of the top prospects in their organization, Josh Outman has been moved to the bullpen from the Reading (AA) starting rotation. This could be a move a' la the Yankees' move of Joba Chamberlain to the 'pen last year. It's a move to address their immediate needs. At some future point, both Chamberlain and Outman may be converted back to starters, but Outman's ticket to the majors in 2008 may be as a southpaw reliever, just as the switch paved Chamberlain's entry to the majors last year.
Outman's 32 strikeouts in less than 26 innings, ability to throw hard, with deception, and good control were prominent reasons the organization encouraged the switch. If things go well in this new role for Outman, he could be called up to the Phillies before September. Chamberlain's call-up by the Yankees in early August '07 gave that teram a big boost and helped a team that looked like it was destined to finish out of the playoffs, qualify for the post-season as the Wild Card entry.
Lefty Fabio Castro, who has seen some major league action for the Phillies the past two seasons, is also making the switch to the 'pen at (AAA) Lehigh Valley.
-phillies fiend '55-
Outman's 32 strikeouts in less than 26 innings, ability to throw hard, with deception, and good control were prominent reasons the organization encouraged the switch. If things go well in this new role for Outman, he could be called up to the Phillies before September. Chamberlain's call-up by the Yankees in early August '07 gave that teram a big boost and helped a team that looked like it was destined to finish out of the playoffs, qualify for the post-season as the Wild Card entry.
Lefty Fabio Castro, who has seen some major league action for the Phillies the past two seasons, is also making the switch to the 'pen at (AAA) Lehigh Valley.
-phillies fiend '55-
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