Phillies Designate Brian Keller for Assignment

The Philadelphia Phillies have designated right-handed pitcher Brian Keller for assignment as they finalize a deal with lefty Nestor Cortes Jr. This move is necessary to create space on the 40-man roster.

Keller, 32, made his MLB debut on July 25, pitching three innings against the Yankees where he allowed one home run but otherwise did not give up additional runs. He was optioned shortly after his debut. The Phillies had signed him to a minor league contract in May, marking his return to affiliated baseball after four years, during which he faced injuries including Tommy John surgery.

In Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Keller posted a 3.86 ERA with a strikeout rate of 23.2% and a walk rate of 9%. Despite his decent performance, the Phillies were uncertain about his ability to compete consistently at the major league level. Keller will be placed on waivers this week, and if he clears, he could remain within the Phillies' organization.