June 18, 2015
Well, this news certainly won't help the Phillies end their nine-game losing streak. The team's ace won't pitch on Friday night against the St. Louis Cardinals, and Ruben Amaro, Jr. has to dip into the Triple-A ranks to replace him:
Due to a mild right hamstring strain, Cole Hamels will not make his scheduled start tomorrow. RHP Phillippe Aumont will start in his place.
— Phillies (@Phillies) June 18, 2015
Hopefully for the Phillies' sake, Cole Hamels' injury is just as how they described it: mild. The only way this predictably tough season truly could turn into a disaster is a serious injury to the team's top trade asset by far. If Hamels' hamstring strain isn't a big deal, there is at least the added benefit of somewhat limiting his innings.
Phillippe Aumont is an interesting story. Out of the Phillies' bullpen picture after repeatedly failing to take advantage of opportunities, he made the switch to starting this season and the results have been quite good at Triple-A. In 10 starts, he has a 3-4 record, 2.35 ERA and 58 strikeouts in 65.0 innings. His control is still a bit of a problem with 41 walks, but opposing hitters are only batting .212 against him. Considering the sorry state of the Phillies' rotation, he was probably due for a call-up soon anyway.
In case you were wondering, here's your updated Hamels trade chart:
Follow Rich on Twitter: @rich_hofmann
