5 Phillies Spring Training invitees who won’t make the MLB roster
By Tim Boyle
2) Why Griff McGarry won’t make the Phillies roster
It’s weird to see the Phillies have a budding rotation down in the minors. Scouting has gotten better and more accurate. They aren’t developing the next David Coggin or Cliff Politte. These guys are good. This includes Griff McGarry.
McGarry is arguably more ready for the majors than Painter is. He made it to Triple-A last season, but struggled in his 8 relief innings. The fifth round pick from 2021 turns 24 this summer and is well on-track to become a realistic option either in the rotation or bullpen for the Phillies at some point this season. He’ll first need to master Triple-A where he must begin the season.
The minor league numbers for McGarry haven’t been exceptional. They may even suggest a future change to the bullpen permanently.
McGarry has a 3.55 ERA in 111.2 innings. What has really made him standout is how well he strikes out batters. His professional numbers include 13.9 strikeouts per 9 innings of work. It does come with one problem. McGarry is wild.
This has been the case since his college days where he walked nearly a batter per inning of work. Thus far, he has issued a free pass at a rate of 5.4 per 9 innings. This is far too high for a starter or reliever. McGarry needs to get a little more control before the Phillies summon him.