After Latest Start, Phillies May Reassign Luzardo To Bullpen

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 23, 2025

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Phillies Mulling Bullpen Role for Struggling Luzardo After Latest Rough Start

The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly considering a significant change for struggling left-handed pitcher, Jesús Luzardo, after his latest underwhelming performance. Following another rough outing, whispers are circulating within the organization about a potential move to the bullpen, a decision that could reshape the team's pitching strategy for the remainder of the season.

Luzardo, acquired last year in a trade with the Oakland Athletics, has been a source of both excitement and frustration for Phillies fans. His electric stuff – a fastball that can touch triple digits and a devastating slider – has shown flashes of brilliance, but inconsistency has plagued his starts. His latest performance only amplified concerns about his ability to consistently perform as a starting pitcher at the major league level.

<h3>Another Setback for the Phillies' Rotation?</h3>

The Phillies' rotation, already facing challenges with injuries and inconsistent performances, might be facing another significant alteration. Luzardo's struggles represent a setback for a team aiming for a deep playoff run. While manager Rob Thomson hasn't explicitly confirmed a move to the bullpen, sources close to the team suggest it's a strong possibility being actively discussed. The team's decision will likely depend on his performance in upcoming bullpen sessions and the overall health of the starting rotation.

<h3>Analyzing Luzardo's Recent Struggles</h3>

Luzardo's issues haven't stemmed from a single glaring weakness. Instead, he's battled command problems, leading to high pitch counts and shorter outings. His inability to consistently locate his pitches has allowed opposing batters to sit on his best offerings, leading to hard contact and runs. This lack of control has been particularly evident in recent starts, significantly impacting his effectiveness. Further complicating matters, his secondary pitches haven't been as effective as needed, further limiting his arsenal.

<h3>The Potential Benefits of a Bullpen Role</h3>

A move to the bullpen could offer several advantages for Luzardo and the Phillies. The shorter outings would alleviate some pressure associated with starting, allowing him to focus on maximizing his electric stuff in shorter bursts. This approach could allow him to leverage his exceptional velocity and movement without needing to navigate a full nine innings. Furthermore, a bullpen role allows managers to better manage his workload and pitch counts, potentially preventing him from wearing down over the course of a season.

<h3>What Happens Next?</h3>

The Phillies' decision on Luzardo’s future role will undoubtedly impact the team's playoff push. The coming days will be crucial in determining his fate. While a move to the bullpen represents a significant change, it might be the necessary step to unlock Luzardo's considerable potential and contribute meaningfully to the Phillies' success. The organization's commitment to maximizing their pitching assets makes this a pivotal moment for both Luzardo and the team's ambitions. We'll continue to update you with the latest developments as they unfold.

Keywords: Jesús Luzardo, Philadelphia Phillies, MLB, baseball, bullpen, starting pitcher, pitching rotation, baseball news, sports news, MLB roster moves, team strategy, pitching struggles, command issues, playoff contention.