In need of pitching depth, Phillies bring up potential trade candidate Howard originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
In need of pitching to get through Wednesday night’s game against the New York Yankees in the Bronx, the Phillies recalled right-hander Spencer Howard from Triple A. Outfielder Mickey Moniak, who was on the roster for Tuesday night’s game, was returned to Triple A.
The Phillies placed Zach Eflin, Wednesday night’s scheduled starter, on the injured list Tuesday with right knee tendinitis. Manager Joe Girardi will plug the start with a cast of relievers. Howard was called up to provide reinforcement after the Phils used three relievers (Jose Alvarado, Brandon Kintzler and Enyel De Los Santos) in Tuesday night’s 6-4 loss to the Yankees and saw two others (Bailey Falter and JD Hammer) go on the COVID-related IL.
There’s a good chance that Howard will see action Wednesday night. He has pitched well in three outings since returning to Triple A earlier this month. He has allowed just two earned runs over 12 2/3 innings while walking four and striking out 15.
Howard, who turns 25 next week, had a 5.82 ERA in 21 2/3 innings in the majors earlier this season.
Though the right-hander is considered the Phillies’ top pitching prospect at the upper levels of the minors, there are indications that he is not an untouchable and the team would be willing to part with him at the trade deadline in the right deal.