Before even delving into the Phillies Nick Pivetta versus Vince Velasquez discussion, it’s important to establish that this article makes a few key assumptions.
First, is that the Phillies are done adding to their rotation this offseason because of the luxury tax. No more free agent signings and no more trades.
This would mean that the group of Nola, Wheeler, Arrieta, and Eflin are all locked in as the team’s first four starters.
Second, is that the Phillies don’t plan to call up minor-league standout *Spencer Howard* for the start of the season.