The 10 Most Underrated Phillies’ of the Past Decade: Part 1

As the calendar turns to 2020, I figured it would be a good time to turn back the clock and reflect on the last decade. The 10 year span from 2010-2019 was filled with a ton of excitement, adrenaline, and farewells. For example, look no further than the likes of Roy Halladay, Chase Utley, and Ryan Howard.

The stars Phillies fans once fell in love with were replaced by an exciting young group of ball players looking to make their mark. Before we move into the next era, let’s first travel back to 2010, where I’ve ranked the top 10 most underrated Phils’ from the last decade.

Part 1: Pitchers

5. Kyle Kendrick (RHP)

Not only was “Crazy K” a member of the 2008 World Series team, he played a key role in 5 straight NL East Titles from 2007-2011. Until his time in Philly came to an end in 2014, Kendrick was a viable long-reliever/spot-starter for a team that needed pitching depth.

4. Ken Giles (RHP)

“Hundred Miles Giles” played a bigger role in Phillies than most would assume. For one, Giles was a part of the franchise’s first ever combined no hitter in September of 2014. He was also involved in a trade that netted the Phillies Vince Velasquez from the Astros.

3. Jake Diekman (LHP)

Another pitcher a part of the combined no hitter in 14’ was Jake Diekman. Diekman, like Giles, threw heat out of the bullpen, and served as a bridge guy to Jonathan Papelbon. He (along with Cole Hamels) was also involved in a multiplayer trade, which helped the Phillies acquire the services of Jorge Alfaro, Nick Williams, and Jerad Eickhoff.

2. Cliff Lee (LHP)

From his return to the team in 2011 to his last pitch in thrown in the MLB in 2014, Cliff Lee was wonderful. People seem to forget how successful Lee was on the bump when things were going well. For instance, take Summer of 2011 where Cliff won 5 games in the span of a month (June).

1. Jonathan Papelbon (RHP)

Love him or hate him, Jonathan Papelbon is the all-time saves leader of the franchise. “Cinco Ocho” didn’t have many save opportunities, especially towards the end of his tenure in 2015, but he was successful in the chances he had. It’s a shame he and Bryce Harper don’t get along. Either way, neither star was able to bring “A title to D.C.”.

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