While the Phillies needs will determine their deadline approach, time controls the availability of the asset needed by general manager Matt Klentak to compete during the stretch drive and beyond.

Hold-or-fold teams:

Some Philadelphia Phillies fans and media exhibit a knee-jerk reaction to an injury, a slump or consecutive unacceptable outcomes or performances. However, moving prospects for a temporary shortcoming creates a roster problem when the organization reactivates the returning star.

IN OTHER WORDS: “The sign of a good decision is the multiplicity of reasons for it.” – Mary Doria Russell

With 91 games remaining, winning the National League East involves acquiring one major piece. Currently, the Fightins can compete with their outfield alignment and a healthy bullpen in the second half, but a rotation southpaw in the two slot must come from another club. Who and when?

Expecting an opportunity for a rookie pitcher as an in-house remedy, some fans are missing the short leash on starters for the bottom two rungs of the five-man staff from the popularity-challenged skipper. As for the GM, he is minimizing the lack of acceptable outings by quickly replacing struggling hurlers.

Currently, three starters are available from three franchises who are open for business. Two are left-handers but Madison Bumgarner is the only rental. However, he has successful big-game and postseason experience.

Concerning major league organizations, some are obvious contenders like the Los Angeles Dodgers, while others are basically out of it like the Detroit Tigers. That stated, a third group is within striking distance of a wild-card berth, but they have no shortage of competition: 11 clubs for three MLB spots.

Presently, the four teams in the Phils’ divisional race have one thing in common: relief-corps problems. But Klentak’s difficulties have been due to seven hurlers on the IL (injured list). In other words, the GM has more reinforcements coming besides the two who returned.

In July, however, three more starters including two portsiders and a right-handed ace could be the missing pieces for playoff-bound franchises. And, perhaps, the cost in dollars and prospects will be more realistic instead of the probable sky-high expectations from June sellers.