Under-performing Phillies leave fans questioning 'rebuild'

Meghan Montemurro | The News Journal

Phillies manager Pete Mackanin's preseason goal of .500 ball is seemingly out of reach just two months into the season.

Nobody expected to the Phillies to be contenders in Year 3 of the rebuild. But they're 17-34 and fans are frustrated.

How can any fan have any hope for the next 10 years? Make all the arguments you want they have zero chances of even being a contender! via @ThorMarkus24 on Twitter

Is it time to panic? via @wagssid

Team personnel and players might want to avoid going on Twitter and searching for "Phillies." The feedback from a frustrated fan base is not pleasant.

The Phillies just completed their worst May since 1928, going 6-22 after getting swept in Miami by the lowly Marlins.

To suggest, though, that there's no hope for the future is a bit extreme. The Phillies' minor-league teams collectively have the best winning percentage (.584) of any big-league organization, led by Triple-A Lehigh Valley's prospect-laden roster and 35-16 record. And at some point this season, whether in July or September, some of those prospects should graduate to the majors.

This rebuilding process was always going to take at least four years to come to fruition, even if general manager Matt Klentak has avoided publicly putting a firm timeline on the situation.

Of course, that doesn't make this year's struggles any less frustrating. But it is too soon to panic. The 2017 season was always about letting the younger big-league players show whether they should be considered an important part of the future.

EAGLES: Eagles need Barnett to boom, not bust, at DE

Who do you think is most likely veteran to garner any interest in the trade market in July? via @sneakerseminole

The collective struggles and/or injuries to the veterans the Phillies brought in over the offseason limits their options for dealing at the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.

Ideally, Howie Kendrick and Michael Saunders get hot over the next 1 1/2 months. The Phillies' minor-league depth in the outfield makes them easily replaceable, and neither are a long-term solutions.

The Phillies' most valuable veteran asset as of now is reliever Pat Neshek. The sidearmer's 0.98 ERA is tied for sixth best in the National League. He has surrendered only two earned runs in 18 ⅓ innings along with a 0.87 WHIP. His versatility – he's filled every relief role in the bullpen over the course of his 11 years in the majors – makes him an appealing fit for any contending team.

As a 36-year-old journeyman, Neshek might not net the Phillies much. But the rebuilding franchise needs any young talent it can get.

Do the Phillies have a any chance at drafting Hunter Greene? via @rcw1168

The Major League Baseball draft is June 12. The Phillies are slated to pick No. 8 overall. Don't hold your breath hoping for Hunter Greene.

A two-way player, high school shortstop/right-handed pitcher, Greene is the type of elite young talent the Phillies desperately need. But it would take a miracle for Greene to fall to the Phillies. The Twins have the No. 1 pick, followed by the Reds and Padres.

ESPN MLB Draft analyst Keith Law currently has the Phillies selecting high school outfielder Austin Beck.