Mike Adams Likely Done for the Season, Phils' Bullpen Back to Bedrock

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The Phillies’ bullpen was already worst in Major League Baseball with a 4.68 earned run average entering Tuesday night. The latest blow sets the group back to 2012.

Mike Adams, signed from Texas during the offseason to fill the very specific void of setup man, is likely finished for the year after three tears were discovered in his shoulder. Jim Salisbury reports:

“Not good,” [Adams] said after having his right shoulder examined in Los Angeles on Tuesday. “I’ve got some tears in there -- rotator cuff and labrum.”

Adams said a course of remedy has not yet been established. He could have surgery or opt for a strength and rehab program that would require up to 12 weeks. Either way, he figures his season is over.

“This season doesn't look good -- highly unlikely,” he said. “This year almost probably a no.”

The Phillies lost 12 games they led going into the eighth inning in 2012. Had they held on to win even two-thirds of those, the Fightins would have made the playoffs. That’s where Adams’ two-year deal worth $12 million was supposed to come in.

Of course if Adams’ season is in fact over, the 34 year old hadn’t exactly lived up to his reputation as a shutdown reliever. The right-hander posted a 1-4 record with a 3.96 ERA in 28 appearances. He’s also battled injuries, one resulting in a 15-day stint on the disabled list.

Adams was one of two free agent additions designed to patch up a bullpen that was tied for fifth in MLB with 27 losses last year. Chad Durbin was the second, and he was released on May 31 while in possession of a 9.00 ERA through 16 games.

Left in their wake is a staff of Triple-A relievers – a situation all-too reminiscent of last year – and no word on who will take on eighth-inning duties. Jeremy Horst and Michael Stutes are already on the DL, leaving the likes of Phillippe Aumont, Antonio Bastardo, Justin De Fratus, Jake Diekman, J.C. Ramirez, and Joe Savery to figure it out for the time being.

Getting to the ninth is overrated anyway now that Jonathan Papelbon suddenly can’t buy a save. The closer has blown four in the last eight days.

While it’s been becoming increasingly difficult to remain optimistic about the Phillies, you could at least cling to the (likely false) hope the bats might come alive. This IronPigs bullpen on the other hand provides very little reason to be encouraged.

If last year is any indication, that’s just another nail in the coffin for this team.

>> Adams has 3 tears in shoulder, season likely over [CSN]

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