Phillies Recall Yunior Marte; Option Michael Mercado to Lehigh Valley

The Phillies made a few roster moves today ahead of their four-game series with the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park involving two pitchers.

The team recalled right-handed pitcher Yunior Marte from triple-A Lehigh Valley, and optioned right-handed pitcher Michael Mercado, not Taijuan Walker to Lehigh Valley.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson announced today that Walker will be shifting to the bullpen as a long man. While Thomson didn't announce his replacement, he did indicate that they will call someone up to start Tuesday in Toronto. One name to watch in the role would be Tyler Phillips, with lefty Koby Allard another option after Monday.

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While there has been a lot of discussion surrounding Walker, Mercado hasn't been very good either, and with him pitching out of the bullpen there was a need for someone who could fill that role.

Marte has made 22 appearances for the Phillies and has a 7.13 ERA and 1.92 WHIP pitching out of the bullpen.

As for Mercado, he has struggled with a 11.08 ERA and 1.92 WHIP in two starts and three relief appearances this season.