The Phillies have claimed LHP Josh Fleming off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays. Additionally, LHP Michael Plassmeyer and RHP Erich Uelmen were outrighted to Lehigh Valley (AAA).
Josh Fleming - 27 years old - drafted in 7th round of the 2017 draft from Webster University, MO
Was 2-0 with a 4.70 ERA in 12 appearances (three starts) with Tampa accumulating 51.2 IP - 1.45 WHIP and .281 BAA - 63 % strike ratio. Over his four year major league career with the Rays has a 19-13 record with a 4.88 ERA in 55 appearances (22 starts) with a 1.42 WHIP. Was 5-0 with a 2.78 ERA in 7 games (5 starts) totaling 32.1 IP in the 2020 season in which Tampa went to the World Series.
Fleming was placed on the IL this season on 6/2/23 with what was initially called left elbow soreness, but an MRI revealed cartilage buildup on his elbow bone as well as inflammation, he was activated on 8/11/23 after a rehab assignment from 7/22/23 with the FCL Rays and AAA level Durham Bulls.
He’s a sinker baller, primary weapon is a 90-94 mph sinker and a low 80’s changeup. Has a mid 80’s slider and a high 70’s curveball. The sinker has heavy action and generates ground balls. The change also generates ground balls - dives down out of the zone. The slider has a sweeping action. Fleming had an American League leading 63.5% groundball rate for pitchers with 30+ innings thrown in 2020. When he’s right his sinker gets +4” of vertical movement which is in line with Framber Valdez (+4.0”) but also when he’s at his best the pitch really shines with +3.7” of horizontal movement.
He’s an athletic pitcher that can command his fastball and pitch off of it. Will get a shot in spring training at this point to earn a role.
Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️
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