Over the last two offseasons, the Phillies largely ignored starting pitching in favor of revamping their bullpen. Two years ago, they signed Pat Neshek and Tommy Hunter to two-year deals then added David Robertson to his own two-year deal last offseason. These three, as well as other complementary pieces, were supposed to form a fearsome bullpen this season to lessen the load on the starters.
That plan failed miserably as the Phillies have one of the worst bullpens in the league. They rank 27th out of all 30 teams in relievers Fangraphs wins above replacement.