Hector Neris is Clearly Not Capable of Handling Closing Duties for Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies' bullpen has been left in literal shambles during this 2019 campaign filled with lofty expectations. David Robertson, Seranthony Dominguez, Tommy Hunter, Pat Neshek, Victor Arano, and Juan Nicasio are all on the injured list.

With the unearthly amount of injuries to Philadelphia's bullpen, Hector Neris was named the team's primary closer. But on Tuesday night, Neris proved he's not up to the task.

The Phillies held a 6-5 lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers, who own the league's best record, in the top of the ninth inning. Neris promptly walked Max Muncy and allowed a single to AJ Pollock. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts sent in Matt Beaty to pinch-hit for Austin Barnes, and it resulted in a go ahead 3-run homer to give the Dodgers an 8-6 lead.

Neris didn't handle the blown save well, as he sent a 95 mph pitch to the upper back of David Freese that came dangerously close to his head. After the plunk, Neris was ejected from the game by home plate umpire Chris Conroy.

Luckily for Neris, the Phillies ended up winning the game thanks to a walk-off double from $330 million man Bryce Harper. Neris' performance on Tuesday night does him no favors in earning the permanent closer's job, and he just hasn't been pitching up to par as of late.

In his last seven games, Neris has accumulated a 1-1 record on an unsightly 8.10 ERA, allowing 6 earned runs on 8 hits.

Despite their struggles, the Philadelphia Phillies find themselves in the thick of the National League Wild Card race. But if they want to clinch a postseason berth, they will have to explore some alternative options at the closer's position at the trade deadline, as Hector Neris is simply not the answer.