Photo credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Photo credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The last two fantasy updates for supposed phenom turned work-in-progress Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez are, well, less than impressive. From CBS Sports, via reader Joseph:

The struggles have continued for Phillies right-hander Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez, who is listed as their fourth starter on the depth chart. His velocity is a concern, according to the Washington Daily Times, which is reporting that he cannot throw the ball past anyone in spring training.

The Cuban import, who has also shown shaky control, signed a three-year deal with the team in August.

Phillies pitcher Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez struggled with hiscontrol facing live hitters, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Manager Ryan Sandberg didn’t seem too concerned about Gonzalez’s struggles. “It was his first time doing that,” Sandberg said, “and it’s something he can learn from and build on.” Gonzalez is taking part in his first spring training as part of a major-league team. He’s expected to compete for a spot on the team’s 25-man roster.

When it was first reported that the Phillies were signing MAG, his contract was supposed to be worth six years, $48 million (according to reliable baseball reporters). That was on July 27, 2013. Instead he got three years, $12 million. On August 30, 2013. Something happened. The Phillies were reportedly concerned after looking over MAG’s medical records. So what we’re left with instead of a guaranteed third starter is a guy who might not make the starting rotation. Fun times.

Side note: Going through the official team photos, here’s what turned up for A.J. Burnett. Gang. Fucking. Ster.

Photo credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Photo credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

And it all really hit home for me when going through those photos I saw: Mickey Morandini, Larry Bowa, Juan Samuel, Marlon Byrd and Bobby Abreu. I feel like I’m in some sort of weird time warp. I’m surprised Mariano Duncan didn’t swing by camp just to take a photo for old time’s sake. That should be the 2014 Phillies motto: For Old Time’s Sake.