Phillies Roster Shuffle: Steward Berroa Heads Back to Triple-A
The Philadelphia Phillies are continuing to fine-tune their roster as the season progresses. In a recent organizational move, outfielder Steward Berroa has officially passed through waivers and has been sent outright to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
This development comes after Berroa was designated for assignment (DFA) last weekend. While Berroa is no stranger to the DFA process—having undergone it four times over the last two seasons—this marks a significant milestone in his career: it is the first time another MLB team has not claimed him, resulting in his first ever outright assignment.
The Journey of Steward Berroa
Berroa, now 27, has a resilient professional history. After signing with the Toronto Blue Jays as an international free agent in 2016, he finally made his Major League debut in 2024. Over the past three seasons, he has seen action with several organizations, including:
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- Toronto Blue Jays
- Milwaukee Brewers
- Philadelphia Phillies
- A brief stint within the Los Angeles Dodgers system (without reaching the big league club).
Analyzing the Numbers: MLB vs. Triple-A
When looking at the statistics, there is a clear gap between Berroa’s performance in the minors and the majors. In 49 MLB plate appearances, his struggle is evident with a meager .477 OPS, recording seven hits and 20 strikeouts.
However, his numbers at the Triple-A level provide a more optimistic view, albeit still modest:
- Batting Average: .256
- Home Runs: 17
- OPS: .737 (across 926 plate appearances)
What This Means for the Phillies’ Strategy
Despite the struggles at the plate, Berroa offers value as a depth piece. His versatility comes from his speed, reliable outfield defense, and the ability to hit from both sides of the plate—even if the consistency isn’t there yet.
For the Phillies, keeping Berroa in the organization serves as a vital insurance policy. As the team looks to acquire a new outfielder before the trade deadline, Berroa will slide further down the depth chart, but his presence ensures that the team is protected against unexpected injuries.
While he may not be a primary starter, Berroa’s enthusiasm and willingness to grind through the minors make him a useful asset for the Phillies’ long-term organizational depth.
