The Phillies signed Jake Arrieta midway through spring training last year to help fortify their starting rotation for the next couple of years. Just a couple of seasons removed from career renaissance that culminated with a Cy Young award with the Cubs, expectations were high for Arrieta.
Despite behind the 8-ball coming into camp a couple of weeks behind schedule, Arrieta won three of his first four games in 2018. His campaign was highlighted by a 1.82 ERA and 10 strikeouts against the Pirates at home and he was among the best pitchers in baseball early on.