Philadelphia Phillies fans have a new name to watch in the bullpen this season—Max Lazar. As the team navigates injuries and roster changes, Lazar’s performance has become a key factor in keeping the Phillies on track for success. In this article, we'll explore why Max Lazar stands out, his recent call-up, and what makes his 2025 contributions so important.

Max Lazar takes the mound for the Phillies bullpen in 2025.

Max Lazar’s Path to the Phillies Bullpen

Max Lazar’s journey to the major leagues is a testament to his resilience and skill development. After a brief stint last season, Lazar returned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley, where he excelled. His impressive stats—a 3.12 ERA and 0.920 WHIP over 15 relief appearances—caught the Phillies’ attention, leading to his recent recall. Manager Rob Thomson commented on Lazar’s performance, stating, “He’s actually pitching really well. And his velocity is really good. He’s throwing a lot of strikes; breaking ball’s been really good.” Read more about Max Lazar’s numbers and his journey back to Philadelphia here.

Stepping Up When the Phillies Need It Most

The Phillies' bullpen has faced big challenges this year, particularly after José Alvarado received an 80-game suspension. Lazar was called up just as the team needed relief pitching depth, especially following rookie Mick Abel's historic debut. While Abel returned to Triple-A as planned, Lazar’s effective numbers against both left- and right-handed batters made him an ideal choice for manager Rob Thomson.

Maintaining low averages against left-handed hitters—a .114 batting average in the minors—shows how Lazar adjusts to team needs. Phillies hope that with these improvements, Lazar can provide reliability whenever the usual left-handed relievers aren’t available.

Recent Phillies Pitching Developments

Lazar's return coincided with several other significant pitching moves for the Phillies. Notably, Mick Abel’s impressive debut drew headlines, as he struck out nine batters to tie a 78-year-old franchise record. Abel’s short return was expected, opening the door for Lazar’s role in the bullpen. Injuries to key starters like Aaron Nola have also required creative solutions—the Phillies are even rumored to be eyeing outside options if Nola’s injury lingers, as seen in this Newsweek update.

What Sets Max Lazar Apart in 2025

Max Lazar’s progress this year is marked by more than just stats. A key difference between this season and last is his success against left-handed hitters, an area where he struggled in 2024. With increased velocity and greater command of his breaking ball, Lazar has become a trusted arm for late-inning and high-leverage situations. Manager Rob Thomson is optimistic, emphasizing the importance of healthy and dependable bullpen options.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Max Lazar

In a season full of ups and downs for the Phillies, Max Lazar’s development stands out as a bright spot. With a consistent fastball, improved control, and the trust of his coaches, Lazar is poised to be a vital part of the Phillies' playoff push. Fans should keep an eye on his ongoing impact as the season unfolds.

For more detailed coverage of Max Lazar’s return and the Phillies’ bullpen strategies, check out this in-depth analysis from The Philadelphia Inquirer and stay tuned for updates throughout the season.