Prior to the MLB trade deadline, the Philadelphia Phillies acquired Michael Lorenzen, a quality starting pitcher. He was traded to the Phillies for infield prospect Hao-Yu Lee, who was ranked as the franchise's fifth-best prospect as per MLB.com.
The Detroit Tigers, who have an abysmal record of 48–60, decided to sell and happily traded away their 31-year-old starter. As for the Phillies, they acquire another quality arm to help them make a run for the postseason and replicate their success from last year.
This article will discuss the impact that Lorenzen is expected to have on his new team, as well as what fantasy managers can anticipate from him.
What to Expect From Michael Lorenzen in Philadelphia?
The Phillies got off to a sluggish start at the beginning of the season, but are now in a strong position to secure a wild-card playoff berth. Their current record is 58-49, and the addition of Lorenzen will increase their chances of achieving their season goals.
Lorenzen is an optimal fourth-starter option for the Phillies, joining Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, Taijuan Walker, and Ranger Suarez. The 38th overall pick of the 2013 MLB Draft has a record of 5-7 with a 3.50 ERA and has surrendered 89 hits and 11 home runs in 18 games this season. In 105.2 innings pitched, he has accumulated 83 Ks with 7.07 K/9 and 2.3 BB/9.
Seven pitches are in his repertoire, but a four-seam fastball (33.7%), slider (24.2%), and changeup (20.8%) are his go-to offerings. In Philadelphia, Lorenzen will be surrounded by better players, which will likely improve his performance.
Michael Lorenzen Will Be a Free Agent After This Season
Michael Lorenzen can be viewed as a rental option for the Phillies, who are aiming to win the World Series. The former Cincinnati Reds pitcher inked a one-year, $8.5 million contract in December of 2022 with the Tigers and will become a free agent at the conclusion of this season.
The Phillies won the National League last year, but the Houston Astros got the better of them in World Series. With quality additions during the offseason and further improvement through trades, they will once again be a formidable opponent in the playoffs.
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