Overview
- The Phillies announced a minor-league agreement with 38-year-old outfielder Tommy Pham after reports from ESPN; the contract includes a July 25 opt-out that would let him seek a big-league job if not promoted.
- Pham is joining his third organization this season after a brief MLB stint with the Mets that ended 0-for-13 and a 16-game Triple-A run with the Orioles that led to his release.
- He is expected to report to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and provide right-handed depth that could be used as a platoon bat or injury replacement.
- Philadelphia's need for a right-handed outfielder is driven by long-term absences for Adolis Garcia and Johan Rojas, which increases the chance of a Pham call-up if he performs well.
- If Pham reaches the majors with the Phillies it would be his 11th big-league club and his opt-out timing positions him to pursue other opportunities before the August trade deadline.