During the four days of rest, players are reflecting on some of their performances from May to mid-July that had mired the Philadelphia Phillies in the basement of the entire major leagues.

A U-turn Forecast:

When you have time away from the daily grind, you can think about your current situation if you are not completely happy with it and alone with your thoughts.

Beginning with the walking wounded, the Phillies have good reason for optimism. Vince Velasquez could make the fifth start on July 18 in Miami, and still cavernous Marlin’s park will be a good place for his return. Meanwhile, Howie Kendrick will begin to rehab this weekend and rejoin the team in Milwaukee or Miami. And lastly, Cesar Hernandez will probably return to the leadoff spot next week. Yes, the ad said help wanted.

During the current month, the Phils are 3-7 with three one-run defeats, but the club reactivating two of their best hitters at the top of the lineup will be more competitive in those tight games. Ergo, 5-5. In other words, if you’re a knock away from another tally, it makes a huge difference. For instance, before they played in Los Angeles in late April, the red and white were 5-5 in single-run outcomes.

During every 162, organizations play well under .500 ball, at .the midpoint, and well over the .500 mark. Yes, the red pinstripes are overdue for four to six weeks of winning baseball because they are not – despite their record – the worst franchise in the majors. But keep in mind, the Phillies had been 29-62 before 2015’s downtime and went 16-5 before Maikel Franco‘s wrist fracture. And last year, they went on a 23-13 adventure inspiring unrealistic aspirations after losing the first four contests. Yeah, same guys.

If you can imagine a phone call between the pitching coaches of the parent club and their Allentown affiliate, you’re close to a recent conversation. How does Edubray Ramos look? Well, he’s got a 2.70 ERA and a save out of five appearances for 6 2/3 innings. And he only had one poor outing: 80 percent is on target.

At the Bank after the Pittsburgh series, general manager Matt Klentak with some staff members and the skipper with his coaches reviewed every player. Obviously, the problem area is the bullpen; and the possibility is two veterans, one in particular, will depart – McClure stated – and leave possibly Luis Garcia as a second closing option. But Ramos will return – the coach also pointed out – to help Garcia and Neris; additionally Jesen Therrien and two former MLB arms with the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs can fill 40-man spots if they become available. Ergo, Band-Aid Bob!

Garcia, 30.5:

2017: 30 Gms., 35 1/3 Inn., 2.55 ERA, 2 Holds and 1 Blown Hold.

Recent outings: 10 Gms., 12 2/3 Inn. and a 0.00 ERA.

Triple-A Replacements: