Phillies add pitching depth with Allard signing

PHILADELPHIA -- After weeks of discussing the need to find more pitching depth before Spring Training, the Phillies announced the signing of left-hander Kolby Allard on Tuesday.

Allard will provide rotation depth behind Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, Taijuan Walker and Cristopher Sánchez. The 26-year-old Allard has an option remaining, which provides the Phillies with some 26-man roster flexibility. The Athletic reported Allard’s deal is worth $1 million with $250,000 in incentives.

This is the Phillies’ first significant move since they signed Nola to a seven-year, $172 million contract in November.

Allard struck out 13 batters over 12 1/3 innings in four appearances (three starts) with the Braves in 2023. He spent most of the season on the injured list and opened the year on the 60-day IL with an oblique strain. Allard then finished the season on the 60-day IL with nerve inflammation in his left shoulder.

The Phillies like Allard because of his competitiveness, and the club believes he still has upside based on his young age. His four-pitch mix (four-seam fastball, curveball, cutter and changeup) is also attractive.

Allard was the 14th overall pick by the Braves in the 2015 MLB Draft. He was traded to the Rangers for Chris Martin in July 2019. Texas then traded Allard back to Atlanta in November 2022 for Jake Odorizzi and cash considerations.

In his four seasons with the Rangers (2019-22), Allard had a 5.85 ERA in 62 games (34 starts).