Phillies

Seth Johnson “Excited” For New Opportunity in Phillies Bullpen

By Luke Arcaini

Published: Jun 1st, 2025 · 1:23 PM EDT

---

Seth Johnson found out on Saturday afternoon that he was coming back to the big leagues.

Johnson, 26, was part of a 2-piece package that the Phillies acquired for Gregory Soto at the 2024 trade deadline. Johnson made one spot start last year and got rocked in Miami, allowing 9 runs and 8 hits in a 10-1 loss to the Marlins.

The Phillies started to turn Johnson into a reliever a few months back, before Jose Alvarado was suspended 80 games for PEDs. The Phillies knew his stuff could play in the bullpen. It’s all about the command for Johnson, and while it’s still not perfect, the Phillies have seen enough improvement to give the 26-year-old a shot in the majors. They know he’s better than his 4.91 ERA in AAA this season.

Johnson is excited, but was a little surprised yesterday. He didn’t think it was going to happen yet, as he’s still learning different things of the reliever world. Johnson spoke to reporters ahead of Sunday’s series finale on what has to change when you covert from a starter to a reliever.

It’s definitely been trying to slow myself down. You do get that rush running from the bullpen. But, you know, just working on some stuff and slowing the game down.

The Phillies designated Jose Ruiz for assignment this morning. If he clears waivers he’ll go to Triple-A. The Phillies bullpen has been shaky over the last few weeks, after a good beginning to the month of May. They hope that Johnson can have an impact on the game quick.

Routines are key for all pitchers. It’s different for every guy, but it’s really different from starters to relievers. I asked Johnson if the mindset has to change when you get thrown into a high-leverage situation, compared to getting a start, and what his mindset is heading into a new role.

It’s not really too different. You know, it’s nice knowing that, like, when I go out there, I’m not gonna have to go five/six innings. I kind of just let it eat a little bit in the one or two innings I’m out there, and be a little more aggressive that way.

Johnson’s call-up might wasn’t even be the biggest Phillies pitching news of the day.

Mick Abel will start on Thursday. Rob Thomson made it sound like this wasn’t just another spot start. It seems like they’re going to give Abel a shot to stay in the rotation for the next few weeks. Taijuan Walker will return to the bullpen. The Phillies are going to try him in 1-inning leverage roles and see how it goes. Walker’s velocity increased when he went to the bullpen two weeks ago. They’re hoping for the same thing in his next appearance.