3 Phillies players who should be on a short leash this season

3) Phillies news: Bailey Falter is on a short leash

Bailey Falter was a surprisingly effective contributor to the 2022 Phillies season. He made 16 starts and 4 relief appearances on his way to a 6-4 record and 3.86 ERA. Other than getting shelled in his one playoff appearance, he finished the season incredibly strong.

Falter made 11 second-half starts resulting in a 6-2 record and 3.38 ERA. August was his month. He won all three of his starts. His 2.45 ERA was the best of any month.

As good as it was, Falter was never meant to be such a strong source of starting pitcher relief for them. The sixth starter for the 2022 team, he’s someone who is more realistically a candidate to finish off the rotation to begin the year.

The spring will include a battle between Falter and a couple of equal or slightly lesser pitchers for the coveted fifth spot in the Phillies rotation. The only player more exciting who can steal it away might be Andrew Painter. Do the Phillies rush him to the majors? They’d have to be certain he’s their best choice. Realistically, Falter has the early edge.

This doesn’t mean Falter should ever feel secure. He needs to be on a short leash. Even if the early season replacement isn’t Painter, the Phillies cannot buy into Falter being their only option.