Heading into the 2024 MLB season, the Philadelphia Phillies are poised for another strong run with the majority of their players returning from last year. While most players have secured their roles for the upcoming season, a few are facing make-or-break moments with the team based on their performance.
One such player is Yunior Marte, who was acquired from the San Francisco Giants before the 2022-23 season. Marte boasts a powerful fastball in the high 90s and a sharp slider in the 80s, making him a potentially formidable short-relief option out of the bullpen. Despite his impressive arsenal, Marte has yet to find consistent success in the majors.
In 2023, Marte struggled with a 5.03 ERA and a 1.63 WHIP, allowing 22 earned runs, including six home runs, with 17 walks and 38 strikeouts in 39 1/3 innings across 40 appearances. His lackluster performance led to a stint in the minors, where he performed significantly better, boasting a 1.80 ERA and a 1.05 WHIP with 24 strikeouts in 20 innings.
This spring, Marte has shown promise, allowing just two hits and two walks with no runs in four appearances. However, he faces competition from newcomers Orion Kerkering and Michael Rucker, as well as returning pitchers Andrew Bellatti and Connor Brogdon, all vying for spots in the bullpen. Marte will need to impress to secure his place with the Phillies in 2024 and beyond.
