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MLB scout's harsh (but fair) critique of Connor Phillips leaves Reds with one option

Enough is enough, and it's time for a change.
ByAbigail Miskowiec|
Sep 5, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Connor Phillips (34) pitches against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Sep 5, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Connor Phillips (34) pitches against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Reds have tried just about everything to get former Top 100 prospect Connor Phillips back on track. Despite being armed with a dominant fastball that touches triple digits, the right-hander seems to have stalled, and a trip to the Arizona Complex League and an up-and-down stint in the Arizona Fall League haven’t quite sorted him out. It may be time for a more substantial change.

Despite ranking Phillips as the No. 16 prospect in the Reds’ organization, Keith Law of The Athletic (subscription required) took a pessimistic tone as he suggested a move to the bullpen. Law indicated some doubt in the efficacy of the plan, but considering Phillips’ plus-slider and electric fastball, he could become a power reliever in no time.

A move to the Reds bullpen could be just what Connor Phillips needs

Phillips’ greatest weaknesses have been his control and his penchant for giving up home runs. Neither of these are likely to improve much in the bullpen, but his stuff may play up if opposing batters get fewer glances at it. Fireballers can frequently display iffy control and still get the job done. After all, Aroldis Chapman just inked a $10.75 million deal despite a BB/9 north of 5.5.

The homers, though, would be a problem. Phillips allowed 1.83 HR/9 last season, second-worst among Reds minor leaguers with at least 70 innings pitched. Unfortunately, Slugger Field, home of the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate, is no launching pad. In fact, Louisville had one of the lowest home run park factors in the International League while Great American Ball Park has the highest in the majors. That could be a recipe for disaster.

Phillips has only made three relief appearances—two of which came in the AFL this offseason—in his pro career so far. Those outings provided a glimpse of the success that he might experience in a relief role. In the first, he operated as a long reliever, pitching four scoreless innings and striking out five with only one walk. In the second, he took the loss but struck out four batters and walked just two in two innings.

Moving Phillips to the bullpen is a risk the Reds need to take if they hope to gain any production from this former top prospect.

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