Phillies caution will benefit Spencer Howard in long run

Spencer Howard #48 of the Philadelphia Phillies (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)

Despite a potential trade destination popping up in the American League, the Philadelphia Phillies appear to be adding Vince Velasquez to their 26-man Opening Day roster. This decision not so much stems from the right-hander’s success this spring — logging only 3 2/3 innings and having not appeared since March 9 due to injury — but rather the team’s caution toward their No. 1-ranked prospect, Spencer Howard.

The Phillies are doing the right thing with their top prospect Spencer Howard.

The Phillies will rely on Velasquez (who is now healthy) as a long-reliever — a role more important than ever as…