The Philadelphia Phillies have made a notable roster move ahead of their upcoming three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals.
According to a report from FanSided’s Robert Murray, Philadelphia has designated right-handed pitcher for assignment. The move clears a spot on the club’s 40-man roster for newly signed left-hander Nestor Cortes. Keller, 32, joined the Phillies on a minor-league contract on May 18 and eventually earned his first opportunity in the majors. He made his MLB debut on July 25 against the New York Yankees, appearing in relief.
The right-hander allowed one run on two hits while recording three strikeouts and issuing no walks over three innings in his lone major-league appearance. At Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season, Keller posted a 3.86 ERA with a 23.2% strikeout rate and a 9% walk rate.
Keller’s professional career has included stops with several organizations. The New York Yankees selected him in the 39th round of the 2016 MLB Draft out of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before the Boston Red Sox claimed him off waivers during the 2021-22 offseason.
After spending the 2022 season in Boston’s organization, Keller became a free agent and later pitched in Japan in 2023. Injuries limited him to only three appearances that year, and he did not return to game action until 2026.
The Phillies’ decision comes as the club prepares for an important series against St. Louis. Philadelphia entered the matchup riding a six-game winning streak after sweeping the Minnesota Twins and Miami Marlins. The Phillies were 70-58 and sitting second in the National League East, while also holding the second NL Wild Card position.
With Keller designated for assignment, the Phillies have created the roster space needed for Cortes, adding another experienced left-handed option as they push toward the postseason.
