Phillies sign reliever Qualls for $1.15 million
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Phillies sign reliever Qualls for $1.15 million
Bob Brookover, Inquirer Baseball Columnist
The Phillies took a pass on re-signing Brad Lidge, but jumped at the opportunity Tuesday to add another veteran arm to their bullpen by signing righthander Chad Qualls to a one-year deal worth $1.15 million.
The team announced the deal this morning and said it also includes performance and award bonuses.
Qualls, 33, went 6-8 with a 3.51 ERA in 77 games with the San Diego Padres last season and has a career record of 38-34 with 51 saves and a 3.78 ERA.
He has pitched at least 70 innings in five of his eight big-league seasons and has made more relief appearances (512) over the last seven seasons than any pitcher in baseball. He had two of his best seasons with Arizona in 2008 and 2009 before struggling in 2010. In his final 19 appearances with the Padres last season, he posted a 1.96 ERA and opposing hitters batted .219 against him.
The addition of Qualls puts the Phillies' 40-man roster at 39 and probably leaves only one relief spot open for competition in spring training.
You can read more about Qualls in Wednesday's Inquirer.
Not sure I am too excited by this. The season before last this guy was horrendous. he got torched every time out. I would also say while his numbers were very respectable last year, he did pitch half his games at Petco Park which is a batter's nightmare. Pitching in CBP will be a different story.
I have no issues with the Willis move. If it doesn't work out you move on. I think there is little risk with a potential for some decent reward. ultimately they swapped lidge for qualls.— Back up the Bus for Gload and Bowker- ever stop to think why Gonzalez is still out there? This is a decent move. He handles Righties, Willis handles Lefties. As for the kids, how many did you want? Bastardo is on the team, Shutes is on the team, Herdon is on the team unless he pitches himself to AAA. Still one more spot for a rookie. Need some vets in the pen. RAJ has done fine this offseason. Don't be surprosed to see Victorino traded at deadline if Mayberry and any other OF are having good years. We won't be able to sign him next year anyway. (too bad, I love the flyin' Hawaiin)— jeff gross
- Let's play baseball .. heck with the "Turkeys" ... ooops, I mean Eagles ;-)— petergou
- Willington, Nix and a full year of Pence isn't better than what we had last year? Are you kidding me? I like the return of Thome off the bench as well. Can't wait for this year to begin.— walt1
- I'm still upset about losing Valdez. He saved our fannies last year. Bad move! Should also have kept Madson.
North Jersey fan— CarlCW
