The Philadelphia Phillies have strengthened their farm system by signing veteran infielder Luke Ritter to a minor-league contract and assigning him to Double-A. Ritter, a seventh-round pick by the New York Mets in the 2019 MLB Draft, spent several years in the Mets organization before brief stints with the Los Angeles Angels and Detroit Tigers this season.
After being released by the Angels at the end of spring training and later by the Tigers in early June, Ritter joined the Phillies on June 14. The 29-year-old provides infield depth and defensive versatility, with experience at first, second, and third base. Although he struggled offensively this season, batting .153 in 22 at-bats with Triple-A Toledo, he posted stronger numbers in previous years, including 26 home runs and 93 RBIs in 2023.
Ritter has yet to make his Major League debut, and it remains uncertain whether he’ll earn an opportunity with Philadelphia’s big-league club.
Meanwhile, the Phillies are expected to pursue outfield help ahead of the August 3 trade deadline. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Philadelphia is targeting outfielders such as Adolis García and Seiya Suzuki after injuries created a need in the outfield. Interim manager Don Mattingly indicated García’s injury could be season-ending.
On the field, the Phillies were shut out 4-0 by the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, losing the series. Starting pitcher Cristopher Sánchez allowed four runs over 5.2 innings and admitted he lacked energy after a poor night’s sleep. The defeat dropped Philadelphia to 38-33, though the team still holds the second Wild Card spot.
