ESPN: Cole Irvin a Potential Call-Up for Phillies in 2018

The Phillies entered the Memorial Day weekend in first place, winning 11 of 16 games, starting with a four game sweep of the Giants.

One of the things the Phillies could maybe look to add as this season goes on, is a left-handed starting pitcher.

While the Phillies starting rotation has been a big reason for the teams success, all five of the Phillies starters are right-handed, meaning it could be something they look to add near the trade deadline.

The Phillies overall ERA of 3.34 is second best in MLB.

Taking into account the Phillies need for a lefty in the rotation, ESPN compiled a list of the most likely call-up option for each MLB team, with the Phillies turning to left-handed pitching prospect Cole Irvin from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Phillies fans might not remember what a left-handed starter looks like, as the team hasn't had a southpaw take the ball every fifth day in over two years. Irvin's combination of breaking-ball command and heavy off-speed usage makes him a stable rotation fit; he'd provide a unique change of pace for opposing hitters if he and Vincent Velasquez piggybacked or started on consecutive days.

In 54 innings pitched, Irvin has a 3.17 ERA over nine starts, going 5-1 for the Iron Pigs.

There’s no telling if the team would actually call-up Irvin, but if they really want to add a left-handed starter and can't get one on the trade market, he might be the most likely in-house candidate this season.