Cristopher Sanchez could arguably be named as the Philadelphia Phillies’ most improved player last season.
In many ways, it was a bit unexpected.
But also a pleasant surprise.
Andrew Painter suffered a season-ending injury. Bailey Falter was traded. Mick Abel proved that he wasn’t ready for the Major Leagues just yet.
Sanchez stepped in and started 18 games with one relief appearance. Over 99 1/3 innings, Sanchez went 3-5 with a 3.44 ERA and 16 home runs allowed. But he became consistent in a season when the Phillies needed another starter.
Luckily, they didn’t have to look far.
With such success, Sanchez figures to occupy a big role in the starting rotation this season.
It’s not easy to shift from the bullpen to the starting rotation. Just like Ranger Suarez, Sanchez made the transition look rather seamless.
The 27-year-old Sanchez developed an incredible changeup which threw hitters off all season. Yes, he did give up 16 homers. But he was so good at limiting the damage and not allowing big innings. He kept Philadelphia in almost every game he started.
Sanchez also gained important experience with one postseason start against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the National League Championship Series. He gave up two hits and two runs, one earned, in 2 1/3 innings. That outing will only help him heading into the 2024 season.
With an entire spring training and last season’s innings as proof, Sanchez should have plenty of confidence.
He proved he could throw all of his pitches for strikes.
Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola and Suarez will likely fill the top three spots in the rotation. Sanchez would be valuable as a No. 4 starter.
He’s earned the chance.
More must-reads: