DONE DEAL: Philadelphia Phillies’ stunning trade add boost to organizational bullpen depth

The Philadelphia Phillies bolstered their bullpen depth on Thursday by acquiring right-handed pitcher from the Texas Rangers in exchange for 20-year-old prospect Enrique Segura.

Robert was assigned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley following the trade. The Rangers had designated him for assignment on Monday, despite him still having two minor league options.

Now 30, Robert has primarily played in the minors but made four appearances for Texas last season, giving up two runs across 5 2/3 innings while striking out six. So far in 2024, he’s posted a 1.54 ERA with two saves and 17 strikeouts over 11 2/3 innings for the Round Rock Express, the Rangers’ Triple-A team. He was DFA’d to make room on the 40-man roster for Dane Dunning.

According to Baseball Savant, Robert uses a five-pitch mix, primarily featuring a sweeper and a four-seam fastball.

While he’ll initially serve as bullpen depth at Lehigh Valley, there’s a chance he could earn a call-up, especially given Philadelphia’s bullpen struggles — their 5.03 ERA ranks fourth-worst in MLB. The club has also recently transitioned starter Seth Johnson into a relief role, suggesting they’re open to trying new options. The coaching staff may see untapped potential in Robert.

Segura, a 2022 amateur free-agent signing, had a 3.18 ERA with 19 strikeouts over four appearances (three starts) for the Single-A Clearwater Threshers.