The enjoyment from the Atlanta Braves' beatdown of the Marlins sure didn't last very long. Things started out promising against the Phillies as Atlanta scored three runs in the first inning off of Aaron Nola and it looked like the Braves could run away with the game. Unfortunately, that good start was stifled by a horrific pitching performance.
Cal Quantrill isn't going to be remembered for having a great MLB career despite being a relatively hyped pitching prospect at one point. Atlanta picked him up on waivers from the Marlins a little over a week ago. Miami was looking to dump the remainder of his salary, and with the Braves' pitching issues, they obliged.
Quantrill is still owed a little more than $700K this season, with $500K of performance bonuses. It's safe to say after his terrible pitching performance against Philly, he won't be seeing that bonus. Kyle Schwarber should pay him a bonus for helping kickstart his incredible four-homer night.
Cal Quantrill needs to go after a horrific start against the Phillies
Quantrill only last 3.1 innings and allowed nine earned runs on nine hits. The Phillies slugged four homers against Quantrill and I wouldn't be surprised if he is designated for assignment by Atlanta after this game. It was a truly despicable performance.
His first start ended early after dealing with cramps after he allowed three runs on five hits, with five walks across 4.2 innings. The hope was that he could eat some innings, but that is not happening. They can't keep running him out there hoping for the best if this is going to be the outcome.
It's not going to get better. Quantrill now has a 9.72 ERA in August across five starts. He hasn't pitched more than five innings in any of those games. Atlanta's bullpen is tired, and they cannot keep hoping these late-season starter pick ups are going to solve the problem.
Top pitching prospect JR Ritchie has been putting up some great numbers in Triple-A, and it's time the Braves give him a chance. Not only that, but Chris Sale should be returning any day now. It's pretty easy to see Quantrill's time in Atlanta should come to a close.