The Philadelphia Phillies are shaking up their starting rotation by calling up right-handed pitching prospect Seth Johnson to start Sunday’s game in Miami. This move comes as a result of the revolving door that has become the No. 5 spot in the Phillies’ rotation, prompting front office chief Dave Dombrowski to turn to the 25-year-old Johnson.
Johnson’s path to the majors has been unusual. Drafted 40th overall in 2019, he was originally a junior college shortstop before transitioning to pitching. The Phillies acquired Johnson from the Baltimore Orioles at the trade deadline, parting ways with lefty reliever Gregory Soto in the process.
Despite recovering from Tommy John Surgery, Johnson has shown promise in the minor leagues. His recent promotion to Triple-A resulted in three outstanding starts, boasting a 0.56 ERA and 0.69 WHIP over 16.0 innings. With a 2.63 ERA and 1.32 WHIP across 23 minor-league starts in 2024, Johnson has proven himself capable of handling a starter’s workload.
This opportunity comes as a result of the struggles in the No. 5 spot, with Tyler Phillips and Taijuan Walker failing to perform up to expectations. With the Phillies’ strong starting rotation of Wheeler, Nola, Sánchez, and Suárez, Johnson has a chance to prove his worth against the Marlins’ lineup in Miami.
If Johnson falters, the Phillies have the option to bring up left-hander Kolby Allard. However, for now, Johnson has the chance to shine and contribute to a team in need of pitching depth.
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