Phillies Promote Flame-throwing Relief Prospect Dominguez

The Phillies are back in town after concluding a road trip that took them from Miami to Washington. The Phillies came close to winning the series against the Nationals, but a bullpen collapse kept them from doing so on Sunday afternoon.  The Phillies appear to be adding a promising young arm to their bullpen to help.

According to many sources, including Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, the Phillies are adding reliever Seranthony Dominguez to the major league roster.  The Phillies have not announced the move officially and the Phillies have yet to make room on their roster.  It is unclear if there is an injury or if someone will be optioned to the minor leagues.

Dominguez was a combined 2-2 with a 1.62 earned run average between Double-A Reading and Triple-A Lehigh Valley.  In 16 2/3 innings, Dominguez has struck out 21 batters, while walking three. Dominguez is known for a 98 mile-per-hour fastball and an accompanying slider that fools batters.  It may very be that he simply earned this promotion outright, or if a pitcher may have been injured.

After rough performances from starter Nick Pivetta and Sunday from relievers Hector Neris and Tommy Hunter, one may wonder if an injury led to the performances.  Neris seemed to have no command whatsoever, which could have been just for a day.  Hunter seemed to battle through, and Pivetta still hit 97 miles per hour with his fastball, though he seemed rattled after giving home runs to Bryce Harper.

Neris has gotten some criticism, most lately after getting the blown save in Sunday's 5-4 loss to the Nationals.  But Neris started the season sharp, maxing out at 21 straight saves dating back to last season. Neris has just two blown saves and one unrelated loss this season in 13 innings over 14 appearances.

Expect a roster move prior to Monday's game against the San Francisco Giants.