Michael Lorenzen
Pitcher - Philadelphia Phillies
The newest member of the Phillies rotation is making a hell of an impression since he was acquired from the Detroit Tigers at the trade deadline. His first start in a Phillies uniform was on August 3rd in a road game against the Marlins. He went 8 innings and gave up just two runs in the Phillies victory on that night. Tonight was his first start at Citizens Bank Park since joining the team, and he wasted no time in becoming a Philadelphia legend.
In his first start in his new home ballpark, Michael Lorenzen pitched the 14th no-hitter in franchise history. With this level of effectiveness and the ability to pitch deep into games, this is beginning to look like one of the best trades that the Phillies have ever made at the deadline.
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| Photo Source: Matt Slocum (Associated Press) |
The starting pitcher wasn't the only member of the Phillies who got their first look at Citizens Bank Park tonight.
Weston Wilson was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2016, but never made it to the Majors. The Phillies signed him as a minor league free agent this past winter, and he's had an incredible season as the Iron Pigs shortstop, batting .260 with 25 home runs, 69 RBI and 23 stolen bases through 100 games. Finally, after 706 career minor league games, he was promoted to the big leagues on Sunday to replace Brandon Marsh who injured his knee and will be out of action for a while. Weston made his Major League debut in tonight's game batting 7th in the lineup and starting in left field.
In the bottom of the 2nd, Weston Wilson hit a home run in his first MLB plate appearance. He would end the night going 1-1 with two walks, a stolen base, and the home run. The last time a member of the Phillies had a home run and a stolen base in their first game was back in 1901... 122 years ago!
If he can keep producing at the plate the way he has in Triple A, this dude could turn out to be a weapon, especially when you consider his defensive versatility. You can plug him in just about anywhere on the diamond when you need him.
Overall, the future is looking pretty bright for the Phillies. They've got the third best record in the National League at 63-52, and they'd be the top-seeded Wild Card team if the season ended today. I think they're in good shape to push for a return to the World Series.
