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Phillies Make Bullpen Swap, Option Chase Shugart to AAA
By Luke Arcaini
Published:
The Phillies made a bullpen swap ahead of Tuesday night’s game vs. the Pirates.
Chase Shugart was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley, the Phillies announced. Lou Trivino had his contract selected and will wear #22 with the team.
Shugart made his debut with the Phillies back on April 14th vs. Chicago and impressed early, getting some big outs in the early-season Phillies bullpen that was struggling to do just that.
Things haven’t been great for Shugart over the last few weeks, though. Don Mattingly put Shugart into two big spots over his last two outings, and neither decision worked. Shugart has allowed 6 earned runs over his last two appearances (1.1 IP) against the Mets and Pirates, raising his ERA to 4.97 on the year. Shugart held a 2.21 ERA at the beginning of June.
The Phillies will give Lou Trivino a shot, who tossed a 2.00 ERA in 9 innings for the Phillies in 2025. Trivino has logged a 1.27 ERA with Lehigh Valley this year and has not allowed an earned run since May 4th. Trivino tossed a scoreless inning on Tuesday night in an 8-0 Phillies win over the Pirates.
It’s been an adventure with the Phillies bullpen the last few weeks. The late innings, for the most part, have been good, but the middle of the game has been a struggle. They hope Trivino continues to bridge that gap to the high-leverage relievers a little more consistently.
A quick bullpen note:
Brad Keller faced hitters in live batting practice, Don Mattingly told reporters on Tuesday afternoon. They hope the next step is an outing in a minor league game.
Luke Arcaini covers the Phillies for Crossing Broad. The wave is the worst thing is sports. Follow him on Twitter @ArcainiLuke