Opening Day Success for Phillies’ Pitching
CLEARWATER, Fla. — The Phillies kicked off their spring training with a bang on Thursday, as five of their best pitchers delivered impressive performances against the Yankees. The team’s starting and relief pitchers hardly needed any support from the defense, showcasing their readiness and form early in the season. Zack Wheeler, leading the charge, struck out four over two scoreless innings, and his first fastball of the spring clocked in at 96 mph, two mph harder than his pitches last year. "He didn’t need anything," remarked Kyle Schwarber, who started at first base. "He looked unreal. All of our guys did."
Stellar Performances from the Bullpen
The bullpen also shone brightly, with Jose Alvarado, Jordan Romano, Orion Kerkering, and Matt Strahm all making significant contributions. Alvarado, in particular, exceeded 100 mph and struck out a pair of batters. Romano, who ranged from 96-98 mph, struck out two as well. Kerkering pitched a scoreless inning, while Strahm, despite allowing a two-run homer, also whiffed two batters. "Alvarado hit 100 and had his curveball. Romano looked great, healthy, looked like his old self. Kerkering came in, he looked unreal. Strahm, I don’t care about the home run, he looked great out there," Schwarber said. "Really good signs that our guys are feeling this good early in camp."
A New Beginning for Romano and Alvarado
Both Romano and Alvarado are entering crucial seasons, driven by their recent experiences and personal goals. Romano, who made just 15 appearances last season due to an elbow impingement, signed a one-year deal to reestablish his free-agent value. "I hadn’t faced an opposing team since May. It was nice to get all the nerves and excitement out," Romano said. "Felt like it went pretty well for the first one. Arm felt good, body felt good. I’ve admired these guys from afar so I know how good they are, but seeing it in person is definitely different. If we stay healthy, I think we have a chance to be really good."
Alvarado’s Transformative Offseason
Alvarado, who struggled after mid-June last season, spent the winter analyzing his performance and making significant lifestyle changes. "I had a great offseason. I changed my routine about eating. I lost weight," a noticeably slimmer Alvarado said. "Latin people, we eat a lot of rice and beans. I switched for more protein, veggies. I came in in good shape and I’m so happy about the result today. Long time I was waiting for this moment. It’s different facing real people than when facing your team." Alvarado will be a key part of the Phillies’ core relief corps, along with Romano, Strahm, and Kerkering.
Looking Ahead to the Season
Following the Grapefruit League debuts on Thursday, the Phillies are set to start Jesus Luzardo against the Red Sox on Friday. Boston will counter with lefty Garrett Crochet. Bryce Harper, who left Wednesday’s game after being hit in the right triceps, is expected to return to the lineup. Trea Turner, Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott, and J.T. Realmuto will also start against the Red Sox. Aaron Nola will make his spring debut on Saturday in Lakeland.
A Promising Start to a Competitive Season
The Phillies’ strong showing in their spring training opener is a promising sign for the upcoming season. With their key pitchers firing on all cylinders and a roster filled with talent, the team appears well-positioned to compete at a high level. The focus now shifts to maintaining this form and building momentum as the regular season approaches. As the Phillies continue their preparations, the synergy and camaraderie among the players will be crucial in achieving their goals.
