DownSwinging.com

By now, you’ve probably heard that the Phillies are considering signing former superstar pitcher Pedro Martinez. Martinez has pitched effectively in two sessions for the Phils, and is undergoing a physical today. Sources indicate that if Martinez passes his physical, which is not a gurantee, he and the Phillies will reach an agreement on a contract for the rest of the season. Originally Martinez only wanted to throw one bullpen for the Phillies, but after Philadelphia insisted on another, he obliged, most likely due to the fact that he has little to no negotiating room.

The fact that things have progressed this far is a pretty good indicator of a question central to this deal: Will Pedro be willing to pitch out of the bullpen for the Phillies? Considering the way things are going, he has probably told them that yes; he doesn’t need to be a guaranteed starter to want to play. If Martinez truly wants to play, he’ll realize that his role now is most likely as a reliever and will embrace it.

The Phillies need pitching, no question about it. They have a team ERA of 4.61, 25th in the majors, and if they want to fend off the Marlins, Mets and Braves are going to need to add arm(s). Why Pedro? Well, he could be one of the best options out there. He won’t be particularly expensive, and since he’s a free agent, they won’t have to give up any of their future stock to get him.