The Phillies’ reported agreement with eight-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel became official on Wednesday. That wasn’t surprising. The corresponding move to get Kimbrel on the roster, however, was.
The Phillies designated right-handed pitching prospect Francisco Morales for assignment to make room for Kimbrel.
Morales, 23, appeared in three games for the Phillies in 2022 and earned a save on May 13 against the Dodgers. He opened the season as Double-A Reading’s closer while transitioning to a full-time relief role. He pitched to a 1.48 ERA in Reading, but struggled mightily with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, walking 28 batters over 20 2/3 innings and posting a 9.58 ERA.
Once a high ranking Phillies prospect, the club may not be confident in Morales’ ability to contribute to the major league bullpen this season and prefer other options such as waiver claims Luis Ortiz, Andrew Vasquez and Erich Uelmen, who was recently acquired from the Cubs for cash considerations.
Perhaps they are hoping that Morales sneaks through waivers at a time when teams are looking to clear roster spots for free agents and plenty of players are floating around on the waiver wire. A team looking for a young arm with upside that has a plan to fix the right hander’s command issues could take a flier on him.
On the other hand, it appears Kimbrel, MLB’s active saves leader, will not be the team’s closer. Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports that Kimbrel will slot into a more flexible late-inning role. Thomson will choose that night’s closer based on matchups and availability.
It’s worked for the Phillies in the past, but it’s an adjustment Kimbrel will have to make since he’s spent most of his career pitching in the ninth inning.
The Phillies will introduce Kimbrel during a press conference held via Zoom on Thursday, January 5.
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