The Phillies Need Pen Help!

I've said it before, but I will repeat it: the Phillies do not have a high-leverage eighth-inning guy who can consistently get teams out or preserve leads. Hoffman and Strom are great for the seventh, but I just haven't seen them come through in the eighth. Similarly, Orion.

There is no one on the Phillies roster or on injured reserve who is a proven eighth-inning guy who can get a hold when handed the lead after seven. If the eighth-inning guy gives up a three-spot, your closer becomes moot.

A bridge to Estevez is needed: JC Romero and Ryan Madson were proven high leverage guys in 2008 and we’re at the forefront of the bridge to Lidge. There is nobody who is a proven eighth or ninth inning high leverage guy on the staff. How many times do I have to repeat myself. They need to set up man who can get a hold so the closer can get a safe.