Phillies make 5 roster moves before doubleheader in Buffalo

The Phillies have made five roster moves ahead of their Thursday doubleheader against the Blue Jays

Following a series split opposite the American League-worst Boston Red Sox at the historic Fenway Park, the Philadelphia Phillies are now in Buffalo, New York, for one day to play a doubleheader opposite the Toronto Blue Jays, before heading further south to face the Atlanta Braves.

Prior to the first game of the twin bill, in which Jean Segura (hamstring) and rookie RHP Spencer Howard will be among the starters, the Phillies announced five roster moves — three additions and two subtractions.

Among the additions were right-handed reliever Reggie McClain (right shoulder impingement) being activated from the injured list and southpaw Cole Irvin being recalled from the Phillies alternate training site in Lehigh Valley. Also, fellow left-hander JoJo Romero was added as the 29th man for the doubleheader.

As corresponding moves to McClain and Irvin’s additions, outfielder Kyle Garlick and right-handed reliever Ramon Rosso were optioned down to Lehigh Valley.

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McClain, 27, has a 4.50 ERA through two appearances and as many innings this season, allowing two hits — one being a home run — and one walk while striking out none spanning nine batters faced. McClain has not pitched in a game since the season-opening series against the Miami Marlins due to being placed on the paternity list, which preceded his injured list stint.

Irvin, 26, returns after previously being optioned to the Lehigh Valley alternate training site on August 9, clearing a spot on the 28-man roster for Howard in his MLB debut. The once considered high-ranking Phillies pitching prospect has allowed seven hits and four earned runs spanning two appearances and as many innings this season, striking out one of his 12 batters faced.

Romero, 23, joins the MLB team for the second time this season, although he has yet to make his debut in red pinstripes. He was with manager Joe Girardi‘s big-league squad for two days last week to give the bullpen a little length, if needed; Romero will fill the same role if called upon for Thursday’s twin bill.

Garlick, 28, acquired via trade from the Los Angeles Dodgers this past offseason, is hitless in five plate appearances with two strikeouts. Rosso, 24, has a 7.94 ERA in five appearances and 5 2/3 innings; the rookie allowed three hits, two earned runs, and two walks in Wednesday’s 6-3 loss to the Red Sox.