Philadelphia Phillies’ emerging reliever, Orion Kerkering, is set to make his comeback from the injured list this Sunday. Kerkering, who embarked on his official rookie season, commenced his journey on the injured list due to a right forearm strain, as disclosed by the team. Prior to his imminent return, Kerkering diligently participated in four rehab outings. As part of the necessary roster adjustment, Nick Nelson will be optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley to accommodate Kerkering’s return to the Phillies’ 26-man roster.
Phillies will option Nick Nelson to Triple A to clear a spot for Orion Kerkering, who will be active tomorrow.
— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) April 13, 2024
Phillies Roster Update and Analysis.
Once the transaction involving Nelson’s option to Triple-A Lehigh Valley is finalized, it’s crucial to note that he will exhaust his minor league options. Consequently, any future recall of Nelson from Triple-A will necessitate his retention on the Phillies’ roster or his designation for assignment to facilitate the opening of a 26-man roster spot. Notably, Nelson is among four pitchers presently listed on the Phillies’ 40-man roster at Triple-A, with the remaining trio—Kolby Allard, Max Castillo, and Michael Mercado—retaining minor league options.
Kerkering’s absence during much of spring training due to illness is noteworthy. Last season, across three appearances in the major league, Kerkering exhibited commendable performance with a 1-0 record, boasting a 3.00 ERA and an impressive 162 ERA+ alongside six strikeouts. During last year’s postseason, he maintained a 3.38 ERA with five strikeouts, though with a -5.8% cWPA. Moreover, in the two spring training outings this season, Kerkering showcased his prowess by tallying two strikeouts, sporting a 0.500 WHIP, and conceding no earned runs.
The return of Kerkering provides Phillies manager Rob Thomson with an additional closing option. Thus far this season, José Alvarado, Jeff Hoffman, Gregory Soto, and Ricardo Pinto have all registered saves, with Alvarado leading with two saves, while the others have one each. Thomson has employed a closer-by-committee approach, a strategy that is anticipated to persist despite Kerkering’s return to the bullpen.
