Phillies hand closer role to Benoit with Gomez struggling
Pete Mackanin's patience has apparently worn thin.
After Jeanmar Gomez allowed a game-tying home run in the ninth inning to the Washington Nationals on Sunday, the Philadelphia Phillies manager has relieved the pitcher from his role as closer, replacing him with Joaquin Benoit.
The decision appeared to be a foregone conclusion after Sunday's performance when Mackanin said he needed to speak with Gomez.
"I'm going to have a talk with him tomorrow," Mackanin told reporters, including MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, Sunday when asked if Gomez would continue as closer. "I'll have something for you tomorrow. I need to talk with him."
Gomez has allowed five earned runs - two home runs - in three appearances this season, converting one of his two save opportunities.
Benoit, on the other hand, has yet to allow an earned run and has only given up a single hit through three innings pitched.
The 39-year-old veteran has saved 51 games in 86 chances during his 16-year career, which has included stints with six other big-league clubs.