David Herndon to DL
Will Herndon's absence create an opportunity for Diekman or Sanches? Photo (AP)
According to Todd Zolecki, David Herndon is headed to the DL with right elbow inflammation. Herndon has pitched to a career high 4.70 ERA but is also posting a career high in K/9 IP and low in BB/9 IP. At best, Herndon has been a reliable reliever whose peripherals (1.95 xFIP, .391 BABIP) indicate that luck has not been on his side. At worst, Herndon has been ineffective. No corresponding roster move has been announced.
My take: Herndon was showing flashes of effectiveness in some appearances but looked rocky in others. Jake Diekman (0.82 ERA in 11 IP, 17 Ks) has pitched his way into the conversation for a call-up but is a lefty. If the Phils are looking to replace Herndon with a similarly-handed pitcher, former Phil Brian Sanches
(3.21 ERA in 14 IP, 12 Ks) has been pitching well for the Pigs. After a hot start, righty Phillippe Aumont is struggling (6.48 ERA in 8.1 IP, 13 Ks against 9 walks) and likely will not be considered to replace Herndon.