Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez, who has seldom pitched since signing a three-year deal with the Phillies last summer, will not make his spring training debut against the Blue Jays on Thursday afternoon due to illness.
Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez to miss Thursday’s game, could begin season in minors
The Phillies’ $12 million Cuban investment may begin the season in the minor leagues.
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
More from our team sites
More from our team sites
Gonzalez could debut against the Yankees on Saturday, though that is still up in the air.
There is a chance the 27-year-old righty begins the season in the minor leagues, according to Jim Salisbury of CSN Philly. The Phillies have an open slot in their rotation, but Gonzalez is not a lock to make the team as he continues building strength in his arm. The Cuban hurler underwent surgery to remove bone chips in his throwing elbow two years ago.
Some scouts believed Gonzalez could be a No. 2 or No. 3 starter in the big leagues after he defected from Cuba, though reports out of Florida suggest he is not blowing away anyone in camp. With Cole Hamels likely to miss at least a few weeks with biceps tendinitis, the club will need someone to step up behind Cliff Lee, A.J. Burnett and Kyle Kendrick.
See More:
