Writer: Frank Klose
Phillies Bullpen Taking Shape as Raul Valdes Returns; Hector Luna Back to AAA
The Phillies very serviceable lefty reliever Raul Valdes has been activated from the disabled list. To make room, Hector Luna heads back to AAA.
The Phillies bullpen seems to be taking shape. I would prefer Kendrick remain in the bullpen over B.J. Rosenberg, but for now the Phillies relief corps looks like this:
- Jonathan Papelbon (CL)
- Josh Lindblom (RH setup)
- Antonio Bastardo (LH setup)
- Raul Valdes (LH)
- Jeremy Horst (LH)
- B.J. Rosenberg (RH)
- Michael Schwimer (RH)
Horst has been a big surprise, as his ERA now sits at 0.79 after 12 games of work. Acquired in the offseason deal for utility infielder Wilson Valdez, Horst is giving the Phillies something to think about heading into next season.
Rosenberg returned after Kyle Kendrick moved to the bullpen. With two scoreless innings on Friday, Rosenberg's ERA fell to 12.46. Justin DeFratus could be a good bet to join the Phillies' bullpen soon as he has a 2.08 ERA in eight games since returning from his disabled list stint.
The bullpen had been one man short following the flurry of moves last week.