Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Connor Phillips, relief pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, has struggled significantly in recent appearances. On Thursday against the Cubs, he allowed 5 runs on 4 hits and a walk in just 1 inning of work after being pressed into action when starter Rhett Lowder left with a shoulder injury. This continues a troubling pattern - Phillips walked all 4 batters he faced in an appearance the previous weekend. Through 20 innings pitched in 2026, he has issued 21 walks with an ERA of 5.40 and WHIP of 1.80. Despite recording his first career save on Monday, Phillips cannot be considered a serious candidate for saves given his control issues and inconsistent performance. The Reds' closer Emilio Pagan is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Strengths
- + Recorded first career save on Monday against Pirates
- + Has 4 holds on the season
- + Strikeout rate of 21 K in 20 innings shows some swing-and-miss potential
- + 1 win and 0 losses on the season
Weaknesses
- - Alarming walk rate: 21 walks in 20 innings (9.45 BB/9)
- - ERA of 5.40 is well above league average for relievers
- - WHIP of 1.80 indicates significant baserunner issues
- - Recent disaster outing: allowed 5 runs in 1 inning Thursday
- - Previous appearance: walked all 4 batters faced
- - Cannot be trusted in high-leverage save situations
- - Control issues are the primary concern limiting his effectiveness
About
Connor Phillips is a rp for the Cincinnati Reds.
Player Overview
RP
Cincinnati Reds