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MLB September Call-Ups: Phillies Likely to Play it Safe in September
Mike Lipinski has been covering Philadelphia sports since 2005. Previous stops include Section 247 Sports, My MMA News, and more. He has been a part of the Sports Talk Philly team since 2019. He is the editor of Philadelphia Phillies content, co-editor for college football covering mainly the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, and dabbles in all other sports. Follow him on social media channels -Twitter & Threads- @TheMikeLipinski
All posts by Mike LipinskiPublished29 Aug 2025
As MLB rosters expand on September 1, the Philadelphia Phillies gain two additional spots for the run to Red October. Fans are eager to see top prospects like Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford make their Big-League debuts, however, with the Phillies limited to a 28-man active roster and a 14-pitcher maximum, the team must balance immediate contributors with developmental opportunities. This often means the two call-ups will be practical choices—players who can provide bullpen depth or infield versatility rather than high-risk prospects. Still, there’s always a chance that the front office rewards a standout minor leaguer with a taste of big-league action before the season ends.
Likely September 2025 Call-Ups
Pitcher Options
- RHP Max Lazar: A reliable depth arm with Triple-A success — 3.38 ERA and 21 strikeouts across 21-⅓ innings. He’s had some success with the Phillies and a practical choice to bridge innings.
- RHP Alan Rangel: Already threw 11-innings with the big club the with a 2.45 ERA, he offers solid innings and versatility — especially helpful with José Alvarado’s recent return and bullpen juggling ahead of October.
Position Player Options
- UTL Otto Kemp: Already made his MLB debut this season, earning roster trust. Had a strong Triple-A showing and is a versatile veteran pick-up to provide infield depth down the stretch.
- C (and clubhouse DJ) Garrett Stubbs: A familiar club presence whose energy and clubhouse leadership could elevate morale down the stretch.
Stubby goes deep 💪#ironpigs #baseball pic.twitter.com/TLMVBno4dv
— Lehigh Valley IronPigs (@IronPigs) August 20, 2025
Who Fans Want to See
- OF Justin Crawford: The Fightins’ No. 3 prospect is tearing up Triple-A — hitting over .326 with strong steals and on-base production. But his path is blocked by a crowded outfield, making a September call-up more symbolic than substantial unless playing time is guaranteed.
Top 100 prospect Justin Crawford brings home the bacon, swatting a two-run shot for the @IronPigs 🥓
The @Phillies‘ 2022 first-rounder is up to 43 multihit games this season and leads the Triple-A International League with a .333 AVG: pic.twitter.com/guKx2cRnzt
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) August 29, 2025
- RHP Andrew Painter: A highly touted arm coming off Tommy John surgery. Management remains enthusiastic, but his Triple-A struggles (5.24 ERA) make a call-up a significant leap forward.
Phillies September Call-up Scenarios
| Role | Likely Addition | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | Max Lazar or Alan Rangel | Provides reliable bullpen innings and depth |
| Position Player | Otto Kemp or Garrett Stubbs | Adds infield/utility coverage or clubhouse energy |
| High-Upside Long Shots | Justin Crawford or Andrew Painter | Good optics, but logistically limited—could wait until 2026 |
Some Final Thoughts
Given the limitations of only two extra spots and a 14-pitcher cap, the Phillies are likely to favor immediate contributors over potential. Max Lazar or Alan Rangel and Otto Kemp or Garrett Stubbs seem most plausible and practical.
That said, adding Crawford or Painter could electrify the fan base, especially if the front office feels they’re ready for a trial by fire but it doesn’t look to be happening.
