Philadelphia Phillies Sign 7-Year Veteran Pitcher

The Philadelphia Phillies have made a move to bolster their bullpen by signing veteran right-handed pitcher Jacob Barnes to a minor league contract.

Barnes, who was recently released by the Texas Rangers, wasted no time in finding a new opportunity with the Phillies.

The Phillies signed free agent RHP Jacob Barnes to a minor league contract. He will report to AAA Lehigh Valley. pic.twitter.com/rfqKzouCJQ

— Complete Phillies (@CompletePhils) May 30, 2023

The 33-year-old reliever had an impressive showing in Triple-A with the Rangers' affiliate team in Round Rock, posting a stellar 2.21 ERA over 20.1 innings pitched. Despite not getting a chance to showcase his skills in the majors with the Rangers this season, Barnes proved his value at the Triple-A level.

These numbers caught the attention of the Phillies, who are in need of bullpen reinforcements. The team has struggled with their relief pitching this season, and Barnes' signing provides them with additional depth and options.

Phillies did make some Triple-A moves: They signed righty Jacob Barnes to a minor-league deal and released Louis Head. Barnes, 33, has extensive big-league time with seven orgs.

— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) May 30, 2023

Barnes brings seven years of major league experience to the table, having previously split his time between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers. Throughout his career, he has appeared in 252 games, maintaining a 4.70 ERA, a 1.40 WHIP, and an average of 9.2 strikeouts per nine innings.

With the Phillies, Barnes will join their Triple-A affiliate, the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, where he will have the opportunity to further showcase his abilities and earn a spot on the MLB roster.

The Phillies are hopeful that Barnes' impressive performance in Triple-A and his experience in the majors will make a positive impact on their bullpen, providing them with a much-needed boost as they aim to improve their overall pitching depth. Photo Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports