With spring training days away, the Phillies continue quietly stacking depth, signaling that competition will drive decisions rather than reputation alone.
Jul 8, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Daniel Robert (48) pitches the ball against the San Francisco Giants during the eighth inning at Oracle Park. | Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
After adding Dylan Moore, Philadelphia brought back right-hander Daniel Robert on a minor league deal with a major league camp invitation.
The signing marks Robert’s second stint with the organization, returning less than four months after being non-tendered.
Last season, Robert floated between Philadelphia and Triple-A Lehigh Valley, filling a flexible, disposable bullpen role.
That pattern may repeat in 2026, especially with one minor league option remaining.
In limited major league action, Robert logged a 4.15 ERA across fifteen appearances, flashing strikeout ability amid command struggles.
His debut cameo was brief but symbolic, striking out the lone batter he faced as the 27th man in May.
Triple-A results painted a steadier picture, with improved control and consistent swing-and-miss numbers.
Robert’s arsenal centers on an unusual eighty-four mile-per-hour sweeper that generated elite whiff rates.
He pairs it with high-velocity fastballs and cutters, giving him multiple looks despite inconsistent location.
Strikeouts followed him everywhere, but walks undermined his effectiveness at the highest level.
That inconsistency explains why opportunities came in short bursts rather than sustained trust.
Still, the Phillies clearly believe refinement remains possible, particularly given his Triple-A command improvements.
Now Robert enters a crowded bullpen picture where margins are thin and patience is scarce.
He’ll compete against pitchers with options, without options, and Rule 5 pressure attached.
The list includes Bowlan, McCambley, Pop, Backhus, Shugart, and several rostered arms.
Non-roster invitees add further congestion, turning spring outings into auditions with immediate consequences.
For Robert, familiarity helps, but guarantees do not exist.
Strikeouts open doors, control keeps them open.
This spring will test whether Robert can finally do both.
Leave a Reply