The Philadelphia Phillies will begin a new series on the road against the Milwaukee Brewers in Wisconsin. The Phillies arrive with momentum after a 7-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in Canada, continuing a strong stretch of form as they push through the midseason grind.
Earlier this month, Philadelphia moved on from relief pitcher Zach Pop after designating him for assignment. He later cleared waivers and chose free agency instead of accepting a minor league assignment.
Paul Casella of MLB.com wrote (on June 6): “Zach Pop cleared waivers, but he declined his assignment to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and has instead elected free agency. Pop made the Phillies’ Opening Day roster after signing a 1-year deal over the winter and had a 3.68 ERA in 7 outings before being derailed by a calf injury.”
Following his departure from Philadelphia, Pop quickly found another opportunity and has now signed a new deal with the Miami Marlins.
Kevin Barral of Fish On First wrote: “Zach Pop has been signed as a minor league free agent and assigned to Jacksonville. Pop was with the Marlins from 2021-2022 Was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays along with Anthony Bass in 2022. Marlins got Jordan Groshans in that trade.”
Pop was originally selected in the 7th round of the 2017 MLB Draft and spent the early part of his big league career developing in Miami before moving around several organizations.
Across six MLB seasons, he has also spent time with the Seattle Mariners and the New York Mets in addition to Miami, Toronto, and Philadelphia.
In total, over more than 170 career appearances, Pop holds an 8-6 record with a 4.83 ERA, serving mainly as a low-risk bullpen option throughout his career.
From a standings perspective, the Phillies sit second in the National League East at 37-31 through 68 games, having won seven of their last ten. The Marlins are fourth in the division at 34-35 through 69 games, also playing improved baseball with eight wins in their last ten.