If the Philadelphia Phillies have had one specific need in 2025, it would be a right-handed reliever. On Thursday morning, the Phillies made a trade with the Texas Rangers to acquire RHP Daniel Robert.
The Rangers had DFA’d Robert on Monday. The Phillies sent Single-A starter Enrique Segura to complete the trade.
Who is Daniel Robert?
Robert made his brief Major League debut in 2024. In 5.2 IP, he allowed 2 runs while striking out 6. Between 2024 and 2025, Robert has a 2.45 ERA at Triple-A Round Rock in the Pacific Coast League. In 55 IP, he’s struck out 69 opposing batters. The PCL is well-known as a hitter-friendly league, but Robert has found success there.
“We got what looks like a pretty good arm,” said manager Rob Thomson before Thursday’s game. “Guys got a good fastball. Throws Strikes, good slider.” His fastball sits around 95 MPH.
Fit with the Phillies
The Phillies’ current group of righty relievers has widely struggled in 2025. Their biggest offseason acquisition, Jordan Romano, first struggled with his velocity, then might’ve been tipping pitches en route to a 12.19 ERA (so far).
Orion Kerkering, Joe Ross, and Carlos Hernández all have ERAs north of 5. José Ruiz‘s ERA is right behind at 4.76. Only Kerkering has options, so the Phillies can’t cycle through options at Triple-A.
When Ranger Suárez is activated for Sunday’s start against the Diamondbacks, the Phillies will have to make a tough roster move. Tanner Banks is the only other arm in the bullpen that still has options. If the Phillies move anyone else, they’d have to go on waivers.
Daniel Robert was added to the 40-man roster and optioned to Lehigh Valley.
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
