Phillies Roster Moves: Mercado active tonight against Braves, Eflin heads to 15-Day IL

Quick roster update before the Phillies open up a crucial three game series tonight against the Braves at Citizens Bank Park.

Newly acquired Oscar Mercado has reported to the Phillies and will be active for tonight’s game off the bench. Mercado will wear jersey No. 35 previously belonging to Phillies legend Cole Hamels. To make room on the 26-man roster, Zach Eflin has been placed on the 15-IL (retro to 6/26) with a right knee bruise.

Phillies Roster Moves

OF Óscar Mercado has reported and will be active for tonight’s game. He will wear #35. To make room on the 26-man roster, RHP Zach Eflin has been placed on the 15-day IL (retro to 6/26) with a right knee bruise.

— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) June 28, 2022

Oscar Mercado has spent four years in the major leagues, all with the Cleveland Guardians. He’s totaled 272 games with the team, hitting .235/.287/.388 in that time, good for a .604 OPS. He’s hit 26 HRs throughout his 4-year career while having 95 RBIs and 200 hits.

Mercado was claimed off waivers by the Phillies when Bryce Harper went down with a broken thumb. Damon Jones was recalled from Lehigh Valley and placed on the 60-day IL as a corresponding move.

Tough break for Zach Eflin, who has dealt with his fair share of knee issues in the past. Eflin has labored through his last few starts and something clearly was bothering him, so this move honestly doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

Bailey Falter will start Friday against St. Louis. Phillies will keep Zach Eflin off his feet for 5-7 days, then try to ramp up. Would not be surprised if the IL stint lasts longer than 15 days because team can use All-Star Break to pad time.

— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) June 28, 2022

Regardless, the Phillies have three against the Braves with no Bryce Harper. Wheeler will get the ball tonight, followed by Ranger Suarez and Aaron Nola.