Phillies Claim Hard-Throwing Ex-Red Sox Hurler Off Waivers Continuing Rollercoaster Offseason

Philadelphia landed a former Red Sox fireballer

One former member of the Boston Red Sox has had a rollercoaster of an offseason.

Kaleb Ort spent parts of each of the last three seasons with the Red Sox. He struggled last season with a 6.26 ERA in 21 appearances with a 24-to-9 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 23 innings pitched. 

Ort suffered an injury during the 2023 campaign and was placed on the 60-day injured list. He eventually was placed on outright waivers and was claimed by the Seattle Mariners in October.

He eventually was claimed off waivers by the Miami Marlins in December but had a short stint in the organization. Ort was designated for assignment on February 7 and has been looking for his next opportunity. 

The veteran righty seems to have found one as he was claimed off waivers by the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday, according to the club. 

"The Phillies made the following roster moves today: (right-handed pitcher) Kaleb Ort was claimed off waivers from the Miami Marlins," the club said. "To make room for Ort on the 40-man roster, (infielder) Diego Castillo was designated for assignment."

It's unclear exactly what his role will be in the Philadelphia organization, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him at the big league level at some point. After being claimed off waivers, a club has to put the player being acquired on the club's 40-man roster.

It wouldn't be surprising to see Ort start in the minor leagues, but if he can impress in Spring Training, maybe he'll get a shot. The 32-year-old was in the 80th percentile in fastball velocity last season and has some upside.

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