Overview
- The Phillies optioned Otto Kemp to Triple‑A Lehigh Valley and promoted Steward Berroa to the active roster in moves made Friday ahead of their Los Angeles series.
- Interim manager Don Mattingly said he struggled to find big‑league at-bats for Kemp and did not want to force playing time, so the club sent him down to get regular plate appearances.
- Berroa, a switch‑hitting outfielder acquired April 8 from Milwaukee for cash, was slashing roughly a .761 OPS in Triple‑A across about 38 games and is being added for speed and defensive versatility off the bench.
- Kemp struggled in limited MLB chances this season, hitting .080 in 25 at‑bats, and the demotion is intended to help his development by giving him everyday reps in Triple‑A.
- The roster changes also included placing RHP Aaron Nola on the paternity list and recalling right‑hander Nolan Hoffman for pitching depth with Nola expected to return after the brief absence.