Phillies May Look Into Past For Reliever

It's been no secret that the Phillies want another left-handed pitcher for their bullpen, and they may be looking to bring back a familiar name. Former Phillie Aaron Fultz was unable to earn a spot on the Cleveland Indians this spring, so the Tribe announced they will either trade or release him. Fultz had a rough spring, pitching 8 1/3 innings and giving up 11 runs for an ERA of 11.88. He became disposable after the Indians picked up reliever Craig Breslow off waivers from the Red Sox.

Fultz has developed into a typical LOOGY (Lefty One Out GuY). He was effective in his 37 innings of work last season, striking out 28 batters and posting an ERA of 2.92. Fultz played two seasons with the Phillies, putting up great numbers in 2005 when he had an ERA of 2.24 and a WHIP under 1.00.

Unless Fultz has been injured this spring, there is really no excuse for the Phillies to not take a flier on him. He can be had for cheap since the Indians have made his availability known throughout the league. It would probably only take a mid-level prospect, or even just cash. Fultz is only 34, and has plenty of good innings left in his arm.

For the right price, it is worth the risk to see if Fultz can give the Phillies another good year out of the bullpen.