Strahm Continues To Excel In Phillies Starting Rotation

Matt Strahm has been a reassuring force amongst some difficult losses.

The Philadelphia Phillies fell completely flat in a disappointing 5-0 loss to the Colorado Rockies on Thursday.

But Matt Strahm was the exception.

Pressed into a starting role because of an injury to Ranger Suarez, Strahm has continued to thrive. The lanky left-hander threw a career-high 11 strikeouts and gave up three hits and three runs in 5 1/3 solid innings.

Strahm was only lifted because manager Rob Thomson didn’t want to push the pitch count.

“It is what it is,” Strahm said of a limited pitch count. “Obviously, the build-up came a little late in the spring, so just riding it out these first four.”

Strahm still appeared to be strong after 82 pitches, but Thomson disagreed.

In Strahm’s last start, he threw a then career-high 67 pitches.

“That was basically his pitch count right there,” Thomson said. “I just have to go get him. The player's health is the most important thing to me.”

Amazingly, Strahm leads the Phillies’ starting staff with 27 strikeouts. That’s saying something with Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler and Taijuan Walker mixed in there.

Strahm signed a two-year, $15 million deal to join the Phillies and it’s paying off in a big way.

The rotation could change quite in a bit in the next few months. For now, Strahm is proving that he belongs.

“We'll see what happens,” Thomson said. “I mean, we're a ways away from getting Ranger back, but (Strahm) is pitching extremely well. Tonight, he was outstanding.”

Strahm wants to pitch. As a starter. As a reliever.

Wherever the Phillies need him.

“I enjoy starting. I also enjoy the bullpen. I enjoy pitching,” said Strahm, who has 29 career starts and 183 relief appearances. “As a starter, you get to do it longer, but you've got to wait four days for it every time. Again, pros and cons to each -- I love them both. I'll throw the ball until my arm falls off.”

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