The Philadelphia Phillies have bolstered their organizational depth by signing veteran infielder Luke Ritter to a minor-league contract on June 14, assigning him to Double-A, as shown on MLB’s transactions page.
Ritter, originally selected by the New York Mets in the seventh round (208th overall) of the 2019 MLB Draft out of Wichita State, remained in the Mets’ system from 2019 through 2025 before signing with the Los Angeles Angels in January. However, the Angels released him in late March following spring training. After 27 days as a free agent, he signed with the Detroit Tigers on April 17, but was let go on June 2, eventually landing with the Phillies.
Ritter brings added depth to Philadelphia’s farm system and will start at Double-A. Over the past five years, he has primarily played at the Triple-A level and proven to be a solid hitter. He is also versatile defensively, capable of playing second base, third base, and first base.
This season with Toledo, he batted .153 across 22 at-bats. Last year in Syracuse, he posted a .225 average with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs. The season before that, he hit .257 with 26 homers and 93 RBIs.
The 29-year-old has yet to make his MLB debut, and it remains uncertain whether he will get that opportunity with the Phillies.
Phillies Eyeing Roster Upgrades
Philadelphia has turned their season around and are expected to be buyers before the August 3 trade deadline. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the team’s clear need is outfield help. With Adolis Garcia likely out for the season due to a torn lat, the Phillies are targeting Angels right fielder Jo Adell and Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki.
Interim manager Don Mattingly confirmed that Garcia’s injury is probably season-ending, noting that while the team awaits a final opinion, the outlook is grim, and Garcia has already been placed on the 60-day IL.
Despite the focus on outfield help, the Phillies added infield depth by signing Ritter to a minor-league deal.
Phillies Drop Series to Brewers
Philadelphia lost 4-0 to the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, resulting in a series loss. Starter Cristopher Sanchez struggled in the rubber match, surrendering four runs on eight hits including two home runs and one walk over 5.2 innings, while striking out a season-low three batters.
A frustrated Sanchez admitted his performance was off, citing poor energy and a lack of sleep the night before, though he refused to use that as an excuse, emphasizing the need to battle through such days.
The Phillies now hold a 38-33 record and currently occupy the second NL Wild Card spot.
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