Consistency Key to Taylor Lehman's Early Season Success

(Reading, PA) - If it's a big moment, late in a ball game, there's usually a good chance Taylor Lehman will be trotting onto the pitchers mound.

When on the bump, it's very hard to miss Lehman. His six-foot, eight-inch frame towers over most and he displays a strong aresenal from the left side that has kept hitters at bay for much of 2023.

As of May 18, Lehman owns a 2-0 record and 2.87 ERA. He has 16 strikeouts over 15.2 innings pitched. His splits are even more impressive. Right-handed hitters are slashing just .171 against him; and lefties, a miniscule .059. Versatility has been key for Lehman this season. He understands that he will be utilized in different situations, and he has displayed the mindset to be successful no matter where he is used.

“I try to have the same mindset no matter what the situation is," Lehman said.

For relievers, the mindset game is a whole lot different than that of a starter. A starter expects to throw five, six, maybe seven or more innings every five or so days. In essence, a starting pitcher has to pace themselves over the course of a given game. They can't afford to burn themselves out in one, or two, innings. But, for most relievers, it's a whole different approach.

Lehman understands that approach very well. He's started and relieved in his career, but has served primarily out of the bullpen since coming to Reading. While unpredictability of when you'll pitch is a factor, it is something Lehman has learned how to use it to his advantage.

“You have to be ready at any time," Lehman said. "You read the game and know what situation you’re going to come into.”

When in the game, it's adrenaline that drives many relief pitchers. While it can be hard to learn how to pitch with adrenaline, it's something Lehman has grown quite comfortable with. Relievers pitch in such-short spurts, that even when they're done it takes the adrenaline a while to wear off.

“Sometime you will have a lot of adrenaline until the game ends," Lehman said. "It takes a little bit to wear off. It comes quick and then stays for a little bit.”

The journey to Lehman's success in 2023 has certainly faced some adversity. He dealt with elbow issues during the 2021 season that forced him to miss most of the season. He came back in July of 2022 and made multiple rehab stops before returning to Reading in late-July of last season.

It's always an uphill climb for pitchers after elbow surgery. But, it was a process Lehman knew he had to attack with diligence. He also made his mindset clear to himself early in the rehab process that he would do everything right and not get too down.

“I looked at it like there’s nothing I can do," Lehman said. I have to get surgery and I know it’s going to be about a year. When you know the timeline it’s a little bit easier.”

He also added, “Once you get over the mental side, you have to take care of business.”

That's what Lehman did. He finished the 2022 season on a strong note with the Fightin Phils. He owned a 0.90 ERA in September of last season and finished his season in Reading with a 3.74 ERA. It's safe to say he has carried over that success into 2023.

Familiarity with the Fightin Phils organization has definitely helped Lehman too. He has now spent parts of three seasons with Reading and continues to get more comfortable. He joined the Phillies organization in 2018 after his time at Penn State and has had success in every stop he's made. But, it's something about Reading that holds a special place in Lehman's heart.

“It’s been great," Lehman said. "This is part of three years I’ve been here. It’s a great place. They call it Baseballtown for a reason. The fans and community are great.”

Now, as the season continues along, Lehman will look to continue to look strong out of the Fightin Phils bullpen. For him, its always been about having the same mindset and getting hitters out.

“As a reliver you’re coming in and throwing everything at them," Lehman said. You don’t know how long you’ll be out there for. I try to mix everything up and go right at guys.”

The Fightin Phils return home on Tuesday, May 23, at 11 a.m. to begin a six-game series against the Harrisburg Senators (Nationals). Tuesday is a school kid game, Thursday and Friday feature postgame fireworks and Sunday showcases an appearance from the Philly Phanatic. Tickets to all games remain available and can be purchased at rphils.com/tickets, by calling 610-370-BALL or in person at the Customers Bank Ticket Office.

The 2023 R-Phils season is presented by Pepsi. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter @ReadingFightins, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram @Fightins.