Phillies’ top prospect with sneaky odds to make 2024 Opening Day roster

Abel still has holes in his game he needs to address. He’s dealt with control issues and recently said he wants to limit walks this season, via Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia.

“Lowering the walks per nine. Objectively, that’s my biggest goal,” Abel said. “It’s not something I really think about too much, it just comes with command and conviction over the plate.”

He displayed signs of promise in his one inning of work against the Yankees. It’s just one inning, so Abel still has more work to do without question. It was a good start, though.

Jim Callis, Sam Dykstra, and Jonathan Mayo wrote an article on MLB.com before spring training listing one prospect to watch for each MLB team. Abel was listed as the Phillies’ prospect to keep tabs on.

“Looking to keep winning now, the Phillies have a veteran-laden rotation,” the article reads. “But how often does a starting five stay intact all year? Just 22 for most of the 2023 season, Abel already touched Tripole-A at the end of last year. That’s likely where he’ll start the 2024 season, but he’ll get the chance in Clearwater to make a nice impression on the big league staff to be the first one up should the need arise.”

It’s important to note that the article states Abel will “likely” begin the season in the minor leagues. The fact that Abel’s chances weren’t ruled out is important.

Mick Abel certainly has sneaky odds to make the Phillies’ starting pitching rotation.

How good will Mick Abel be in the big leagues?

Abel is known for his fastball. He throws a curveball, slider and changeup as well. Scouts seem to believe in Abel’s breaking stuff, while his fastball obviously stands out. The question is whether he can improve his command.

Many hard-throwing young pitchers struggle with control. Trying to command anything over 95 MPH is not an easy task to accomplish. Phillies fans should be encouraged to hear that Abel’s primary goal is to work on the command of his pitches.

So will Abel actually make the Phillies’ roster out of spring training?

If Philadelphia’s current rotation remains healthy then Abel will likely start the 2024 campaign at Triple-A. If he finds a way to dominate throughout the spring and Philadelphia’s other No. 5 candidates for the rotation struggle, then perhaps he can sneak onto the MLB roster. With that being said, the Phillies will not rush him to the big league club.

Whether he opens the season in Philadelphia or in the minor leagues, Abel will be a pitcher worth keeping an eye on this spring. He could become Philadelphia’s next star pitcher someday.