With Vance Worley’s return to the Ironpig’s roster it leaves the team with 6 starters. Yes, International League pitcher of the week Brian Gordon, I consider a starter. The big question is, do the Phillies see him that way?
While Gordon has been great over the past couple weeks since coming off the disabled list, he may find himself in the bullpen yet again. This said even more so since Grilli was placed on the Disabled list this morning. It saves room on the roster (and saves Chapman a tank of gas) but it leaves the Pigs heavy on the starter side.
So far, Shoeless Eddie Bonine and Nate Bump have eaten the most innings with 37.1 each with Bass and Feierabend close behind.
The rotation:
1. Vance Worley – this is the no brainer. He’s going to continue. Depending on Joe Blanton’s recovery and success the Phillies want him throwing on schedule.
2. Eddie Bonine – Bonine had a great start to the season but is leveling off. His recent control problems are reason for worry but I don’t see him leaving the rotation just yet.
3. Brian Bass – Bass’ recent complete game is a glimpse of what he can do for the Pigs. He came through strong on a day they were thin in the bullpen and that speaks volumes for a quality pitcher. He has allowed 7 HR this season so far.
4. Nate Bump – While Bump’s stats are very close to Bass, I gave Bass the edge with his recent performance.
5. Ryan Feierabend – Like Bass, Feierabend has been victim to the HR allowing a team high of 8. He has done well for us but does have that April 28th shelling on his line.
6. Brian Gordon – With a 1-0 record, a 0.36 ERA, only 1 earned run in 24.2 innings and an IL Pitcher of the Week award showcasing his 2011 season, I still think the Phillies will push him into the bullpen.
While he will get more starts this season with injuries and callups he has only 13 career starts prior to this year. It stinks for him, it stinks for us.
That’s my guess.. what is yours?
noisenation.mlblogs.com 
In some ways though, it could be the best situation for him. While I’ve enjoyed his starts, and he has performed well, I do think his best shot of getting playing time in Philly is out of the pen. Continued success as a long man out of the pen could earn him a call up.