That Balls Outta Here
FanSided

Phillies Roster Moves: Pat Neshek Back, Lively Returned to AAA

By George Stockburger

Apr 5, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Pat Neshek (17) throws against the Cincinnati Reds in the eighth inning at Great American Ball Park. The Reds won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 5, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Pat Neshek (17) throws against the Cincinnati Reds in the eighth inning at Great American Ball Park. The Reds won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Ben Lively’s first go-around in Phillies pinstripes was short-lived, but the veteran Neshek is back in a big way

Less than a week after being called up to the major leagues Ben Lively is returning to Lehigh Valley. The Phillies optioned one of their top pitching prospects back to AAA without any appearances at the big league level.

Veteran reliever Pat Neshek has returned from paternity leave after the birth of his third child Shae. Neshek lost his first child after complications during birth and saw his second child also struggle with health issues. No reports have suggested Shae experienced any difficulties.

The submarine pitcher Neshek has been outstanding for the Phillies through his first six games out of the bullpen. He’s yet to have given up a run while striking out four batters as a middle reliever in the Phils ‘pen.

Lively saw no action during his brief stint in the big leagues and will likely start for the IronPigs upon his return. The 25-year-old was acquired in the Marlon Byrd trade prior to the 2015 season, and has been outstanding for both Reading and Lehigh Valley.

Last season between the two minor league affiliates Lively had a combined record of 18-5 with a 2.69 ERA on his way to winning the Phillies Paul Owens Award.

Next: Phillies Offering Ticket Discount During NFL Draft

Neshek is expected to be available for the Phillies on Friday evening when the Atlanta Braves come to Citizens Bank Park for the season series opener. Jeremy Hellickson will face the “live-action Kool-Aid man” Bartolo Colon at 7:05 tonight.

Home/Phillies News