This Philadelphia Phillies Pitcher Has Been a Pleasant Surprise

As a group, the Philadelphia Phillies’ pitching staff has largely been underwhelming so far to begin the 2026 season. That said, there have been some individual performances that warrant some recognition and praise.

One of those pitchers who has been a pleasant surprise out of the Phillies’ bullpen is reliever Chase Shugart.

Sugart is a newcomer to Philadelphia’s organization this season, and is the third team he’s been a part of after being drafted and making his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox.

Shugart is certainly making a solid first impression with the Phillies. The right-hander was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in January after the National League Central team designated him for assignment.

Shugart wasn’t on Philly’s Opening Day roster and wasn’t recalled to the big-league roster until April 14. He’s been used quite a bit since that promotion.

In Shugart’s first nine games with Philadelphia, he’s given up one earned run in nine innings, with a 1.11 WHIP. Even though the strikeout rate is slightly above average, 24.3 percent, Shugart is succeeding in a reliever's primary goal: not allowing free base runners. He’s only walked two batters up to this point in the season.

Apr 30, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Chase Shugart (55) prepares to pitch during the ninth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images