What happened: Phillies reliever Brad Keller was placed on the 15-day injured list with a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow and is expected to miss the rest of the season. Keller plans to seek a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister before deciding on surgery. Philadelphia recalled right-hander Seth Johnson from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to fill the roster spot.
Why it matters: Keller had been Philadelphia's primary setup man in front of closer Jhoan Duran on the two-year deal he signed in December. The bullpen was already the Phillies' top trade deadline priority before the injury, and Philadelphia enters the stretch leading its series with the Mets 2-1 while trying to hold second place.
By the numbers: Keller, who turns 31 this month, was 2-1 with a 4.02 ERA and three saves in 32 appearances, throwing 31 1/3 innings with 32 strikeouts and 13 walks. If he needs Tommy John surgery, he could also miss most or all of the 2027 season.
What to watch: Keller's second opinion will determine whether he undergoes Tommy John surgery. Philadelphia faces an Aug. 3 trade deadline to address the bullpen, with the Mets leading 3-0 as Friday's game continues.