Phillies Sign Nestor Cortes as Free-Agent Pitcher

The Philadelphia Phillies have confirmed the signing of free-agent pitcher Nestor Cortes shortly after their 4-1 victory against the Marlins at Citizens Bank Park, completing a series sweep over their National League East rivals.

Cortes has been added to the 40-man roster and optioned to Single-A Clearwater, with right-hander Brian Keller designated for assignment to create space. Interim manager Don Mattingly expressed uncertainty about how Cortes will fit into the team's plans, noting he has not seen him pitch in person.

Tim Mayza, a reliever for the Phillies who played with Cortes on the Yankees, described him as a unique pitcher capable of disrupting hitters' timing with his delivery. Cortes, who has a career 3.33 ERA over 489 innings with the Yankees, has faced challenges with injuries and performance in recent seasons. The Phillies may consider using him in a hybrid role as they look to leverage his experience in the final weeks of the regular season.