Navigating Adversity: Key Players’ Health Vital for Phillies’ 2024 Aspirations

The Philadelphia Phillies encountered adversity right from the start of the 2023 season. With superstar Bryce Harper sidelined due to Tommy John surgery and first baseman Rhys Hoskins suffering a season-ending injury during spring training, the Phillies faced significant challenges early on.

Despite these setbacks, the Phillies managed to navigate through the initial part of the season. The return of Harper ahead of schedule provided a boost, and the team gradually gained momentum, ultimately securing a playoff spot.

While other players also dealt with injuries during the season, the Phillies overcame these obstacles to achieve overall success in 2023.

As the 2024 season approaches, the health of certain key players will be crucial for the Phillies’ postseason aspirations. Here are three players whose well-being could significantly impact the team’s performance:

Ranger Suárez:

Left-handed pitcher Ranger Suárez has emerged as one of the Phillies’ most promising pitchers in recent years. Since transitioning from a reliever to a starter in 2021, he has solidified his role in the rotation. Despite injuries disrupting his 2023 season, Suárez made a notable impact during the postseason, demonstrating his value with impressive performances.

With the Phillies maintaining their starting rotation for 2024, Suárez’s health will be essential for the team’s success. Staying injury-free will allow him to anchor the rotation effectively and contribute to the Phillies’ postseason ambitions, making him a vital asset in crucial games.

Seranthony Domínguez:

Seranthony Domínguez played a crucial role in the Phillies’ 2022 journey to the World Series. Despite recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2021, he managed to maintain relatively good health throughout the 2022 season, with only a brief absence due to right triceps tendinitis. Domínguez delivered solid performances out of the bullpen, compiling a 6-5 record with 15 holds, a 3.00 ERA, a 1.14 WHIP, and 61 strikeouts across 51 innings in 54 appearances. His dominance continued in the playoffs, where he allowed just two runs over 10 2/3 innings while striking out 18 batters.

However, in 2023, Domínguez faced challenges with his control during the first half of the season, resulting in an ERA close to 4.50 and a concerning WHIP of 1.56. His performance was further hampered by a left oblique strain that sidelined him for over a month between June and July.

Upon his return from the injured list, Domínguez showed signs of improvement, finishing the season with a 3-3 record, two saves, and four holds. He boasted a commendable 2.49 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP, and 18 strikeouts in 21 2/3 innings over his final 23 appearances in August and September. It’s possible that his earlier struggles were influenced by the underlying injury, as he appeared to regain his dominant form from 2022 following his recovery.

During the playoffs, Domínguez continued his strong performance, holding opponents scoreless in six appearances.

The contrast between a healthy and an ailing Domínguez is evident. To ensure the Phillies benefit from his dominant late-inning relief in 2024, it’s crucial for Domínguez to be in optimal condition.

José Alvarado:

The fate of the Phillies in 2024 may rest on the shoulders of seasoned reliever José Alvarado. With Craig Kimbrel departing to free agency this offseason and the Phillies refraining from acquiring additional bullpen arms, Alvarado appears poised to assume the closer role for the team. He is likely to see ample opportunities to secure games as the potential closer-in-waiting for the ballclub.

Alvarado is certainly deserving of this opportunity. Not only does he have prior experience in the role, but he also performed admirably last season when Kimbrel faced struggles. Manager Rob Thomson undoubtedly trusts Alvarado’s capabilities to excel in the role, especially considering his 10 saves last year. Throughout the season, Alvarado showcased stellar performance on the mound, boasting a career-best 1.74 ERA and 1.16 WHIP, along with an impressive 64 strikeouts in just 41 1/3 innings pitched.

However, the primary concern remains Alvarado’s ability to maintain his health throughout the season. Last year, he grappled with recurring left elbow inflammation, resulting in two lengthy stints on the sidelines. While the Phillies managed to cope in his absence with other players stepping up, the absence of Kimbrel and uncertainty surrounding the bullpen’s depth heighten the importance of Alvarado’s health in 2024. As the presumed primary closer, his well-being becomes paramount. The Phillies should prioritize measures to ensure Alvarado’s optimal health in the upcoming season, as his presence could be pivotal in leading the team to the playoffs and addressing unfinished business.