The Philadelphia Phillies made a series of roster moves this week that change how the 40-man roster looks. After solidifying his role as the starting left fielder Austin Hays is now on the 10-day injured list. Hays left the Phillies game on Wednesday with a left hamstring strain that now has him on the injured list. Also, Cal Stevenson has been added to the 40-man roster and called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. To clear space for Stevenson on the 40-man roster, Darick Hall has been designated for assignment.
In addition to these moves, the Phillies reshuffled their pitching staff. This comes as Taijuan Walker and Ranger Suárez are expected to return soon. The Phillies have optioned Kolby Allard to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Joining the 40-man roster and being called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley is Max Lazar. To make room for Lazar on the 40-man roster, Max Castillo has been designated for assignment. The first appearance Lazar makes for the Phillies will be his major league debut. He was scheduled to be a minor league free agent this offseason.
The Phillies announced the following roster moves:
– Outfielder Austin Hays was placed on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to 8/8) with a left hamstring strain
– Outfielder Cal Stevenson had his contract selected from triple-A Lehigh Valley
– Left-handed pitcher Kolby Allard…— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) August 9, 2024
Phillies Make Several 40-Man Roster Moves
Stevenson now gets another chance in the big leagues. In 29 major league games, he has a .145/.259/.188 line with no home runs and one RBI. However, this season in 91 minor league games, Stevenson has a .307/.420/.488 line with seven home runs and 39 RBI. He was named International League Player of the Month for July. In July, Stevenson had a 1.105 OPS and hit three home runs while driving in nine runs. All of his career starts in the majors have come in center field.
Lazar being promoted indicates a future corresponding move. Whenever Walker or Suárez returns, whichever comes first, Yunior Marte will be optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley in all likelihood. In addition, this sets up the Phillies going to a six-man rotation. Lazar does not have a start in the minor leagues this season. In 34 minor league appearances, he has a 2-3 record with a 1.79 ERA and 53 strikeouts. Lazar also has 13 saves in the minor leagues this season.
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