The Phillies are turning to Alex McFarlane, and they’re doing it at a time when the bullpen needs help badly.
Multiple reports say Philadelphia is calling up the 17th-ranked prospect, with Jonathan Mayo writing, "Can confirm that the @Phillies are calling up RHP Alex McFarlane to the big leagues. No. 17 prospect had 2.06 ERA, 12.1 K/9, .187 BAA for Double-A Reading.
Could provide good boost to #Phillies bullpen. Looks like @MLN_X_ had it first?"
McFarlane, 25, was already brought up to the majors on April 24, though he never got into a game. Back then, the Phillies had Brad Keller in the bullpen and weren’t short on arms. That picture has changed.
In Double-A, McFarlane has been overpowering hitters. He’s reached 102 and has mostly sat in the 99-100 range. Across 32 games, he posted a 2.06 ERA with 12 saves in 35 innings, along with 47 strikeouts and a 1.15 WHIP.
Philadelphia’s relief corps has been sliding over the past few weeks, and Keller’s UCL tear was the major blow. With two weeks left until the trade deadline, the Phillies are going to see what McFarlane can give them in the big leagues.
The likely corresponding move is Alan Rangel being optioned to Triple-A. If the Phillies shuffle the rotation, they would only need the fifth starter spot one more time before the deadline. If the move turns out to be someone other than Rangel, that will be updated when it’s announced.
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