Phillies Demote Orion Kerkering to Triple-A After Late-Season Collapse

After another rough outing from Orion Kerkering, according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, the Phillies sent the right-hander to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and in his place have recalled right-handed pitcher Max Lazar from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Kerkering’s Brutal Outing Against the Mets

During a brutal eighth inning in Flushing on Saturday night, Kerkering surrendered four runs on four hits, with the Phillies watching the deficit balloon from 6-3 to 10-3.  He also allowed two walks and hit a batter, which has added to his issues this month.

It's been a rough month for Kerkering, who has pitched in just 4.1 innings in September, giving up nine hits and walking six, leading to an ERA of 18.69.

The Troubling Stat Line Since Late July

According to Anthony SanFilippo of On Pattison, the numbers since July 22 are even worse; over his last 22 games, Kerkering has a 10.24 ERA and 2.018 WHIP.

This was after Kerkering got off to a surprisingly good start following a horrific ending to the 2025 season in the Phillies' National League Division Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

From Early Success to September Collapse

After Kerkering threw away the Phillies' season in 2025, he rebounded to open 2026.  The 25-year-old started the season strong, compiling a 6-0 mark with a 2.33 ERA over his first 41 outings. What was equally impressive was his 43 strikeouts in 38 2/3 innings of work.

Who Will Step Up in the Bullpen?

As for who replaces him, that's a tricky question. While the team has recalled Lazar, who returns for his third stint of the season with the Phillies, he may not be the playoff solution.

Could Veteran Nestor Cortes Fill the Multi-Inning Void?

There has been some talk of calling up veteran lefty Nestor Cortes, who signed with Philadelphia back on August 19 and has been working his way back from arm surgery.