Millville’s Buddy Kennedy Designated for Assignment as Bryce Harper Returns

Millville High School graduate Buddy Kennedy is set to move on after spending the past 11 days with the Philadelphia Phillies after being recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Kennedy was 0-for-7 before being released.

Bryce Harper’s Return Forces a Roster Move

Harper’s Impact on the Phillies' Offense

Harper has been out of the Phillies' lineup since June 7, with the team going 13-14 without him, scoring 4.77 runs per game with him in the lineup, 4.22 runs per game without him.

• Read More: Where should Bryce Harper hit in the Phillies lineup?

Kennedy’s Lehigh Valley Numbers This Season

Kennedy was having a fine season with Lehigh Valley, the Millville native slashed .283/.388/.447 (.835 OPS) with 35 runs, 11 doubles, one triple, eight home runs, 40 RBI, and 31 walks in 61 games this season.

• Read More: Trout and Kennedy Hit Home Runs on Same Day

He was acquired by the Phillies from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for cash considerations on June 7, 2024.

Prior to joining the Phillies, Kennedy spent part of the 2024 season with the Detroit Tigers. He previously played for the Arizona Diamondbacks (2022-23).

• Read More: Phillies fans chant for Buddy Kennedy

While at Millville, Kennedy was outstanding, leading him to be selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fifth round of the 2017 MLB Draft. Over his three seasons with the T-Bolts, Kennedy had 54 hits in 108 at-bats, hitting 18 home runs with 54 RBI.

What’s Next for the Millville Native?

As for what's next for the Millville alum, the Phillies can trade or waive Kennedy at any point in the next five days. If he clears waivers, he’ll have the right to reject a minor league assignment and would become a free agent.