Phillies Acquire RHP Chase Shugart from Pirates for Francisco Loreto

The Philadelphia Phillies traded for more bullpen depth, adding right-handed pitcher Chase Shugart from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday for minor league infielder Francisco Loreto.

Shugart’s Success Against Right-Handed Hitters

Shugart was excellent against righties this past season. He held right-handed batters to a .198 average.

Analyzing Chase Shugart’s Fit in the Phillies Bullpen

The Phillies traded left-handed reliever Matt Strahm to the Kansas City Royals for right-hander Jonathan Bowlan earlier in the offseason, so Shugart fills a need to add depth to their bullpen and should compete for a big league job.

The Phillies have a solid back end of the bullpen with closer Johan Duran and new setup man Brad Keller. Jose Alvarado and Tanner Banks give the Phillies two solid arms from the left side, and they added lefty Kyle Backhus from the Diamondbacks. Plus, Orion Kerkering gives the team another solid arm with good stuff.

Pirates acquire Francisco Loreto

As for Loreto, the 18-year-old played in 47 games last season for the rookie-level Florida Complex League. He was originally signed by the Phillies as an amateur free agent out of Venezuela on Jan. 15, 2024.

He slashed .237/.332/.396 and wasn't thought to be a high-level prospect for the Phillies organization.  He has played second, third, and even caught a little bit.

The Phillies' 40-man roster is now at 40.