The Philadelphia Phillies have continued searching for the right bullpen formula throughout the 2026 MLB season as they try to build a reliable bridge to closer Jhoan Duran.
While right-hander Orion Kerkering has been one of the bullpen’s most dependable arms, the relief corps has lacked consistency since Brad Keller landed on the injured list. With the middle innings becoming increasingly unstable, Philadelphia has decided to make another roster move in hopes of strengthening its bullpen.
The Phillies have optioned right-handed reliever Chase Shugart to Triple-A Lehigh Valley following a pair of difficult outings against the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets. Replacing him on the active roster is veteran right-hander Lou Trivino, who has earned another opportunity in the majors.
According to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com on X, the Phillies have officially purchased Trivino’s contract from Triple-A Lehigh Valley, marking his second stint with the organization after appearing in 10 games for Philadelphia during the 2025 season.
Phillies option Chase Shugart, promote Lou Trivino in latest bullpen overhaul
Trivino proved to be a valuable contributor during his first stint with the Phillies last season. Across nine innings, he posted a 2.00 ERA while striking out eight hitters. His impressive stretch also produced a 230 ERA+, a 3.36 FIP, and 0.3 bWAR despite the limited workload.
The 2025 season marked Trivino’s first appearance in the Major Leagues since 2023. He opened the 2026 campaign with Philadelphia before being released, eventually signing with the Baltimore Orioles on May 4.
His stay in Baltimore was brief. Trivino appeared in just two games, surrendering six earned runs over three innings before becoming a free agent on May 12. The Phillies quickly reunited with the veteran four days later, and his outstanding performance at Triple-A has now earned him another call-up.
Trivino has been dominant with Lehigh Valley this season. In 22 appearances spanning 28.1 innings, he compiled a sparkling 1.27 ERA while recording 34 strikeouts, making a strong case that he can provide much-needed stability to a bullpen that has occasionally been stretched thin.
The Phillies are expected to lean on Trivino immediately. Shugart had become a regular option for interim manager Don Mattingly, but his recent performances suggested he may have been wearing down.
The right-hander allowed three runs in consecutive appearances against the Pirates and Mets, continuing a rough stretch that saw opponents score three runs against him during June and inflate his ERA to 4.97.
Before hitting that skid, Shugart had enjoyed an impressive start to the 2026 campaign, posting a 2.21 ERA through his first 16 appearances.