Location over velocity for Phillies’ relievers

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ST. LOUIS — Location, not high velocity, is everything to the Phillies’ bullpen.

Without any traditional flamethrowers who can routinely throw in the high 90’s, Phillies’ relievers are showing that the strikeouts don’t have to pile up while topping the radar gun. Entering Tuesday’s game against the Cardinals, Phillies relievers had 94 strikeouts, third most in the big leagues behind Boston (96) and Minnesota (95).

“It’s nice to have a big arm, but those guys still have to throw quality strikes,” Phillies manager Pete Mackanin said. “If you throw 97, it’s great if you throw it here or here or elevate it, but if it’s thigh-high two or three in row, Major Leaguers can hit it.”

Reliever Andrew Bailey …

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