The Phillies are betting on Zach McCambley to make a splash this season. The 26-year-old right-hander has the potential to shake up their major league bullpen, and here's why.
McCambley, standing at 6-foot-2, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He spent five seasons honing his craft in the Marlins organization before the Phillies drafted him in December's Rule 5 draft. Last year, he dominated in Double-A and Triple-A, logging 62 innings with a stellar 2.90 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP.
But what truly sets McCambley apart is his ability to dominate right-handed hitters. He held them to a mere .186 average, thanks in large part to his deadly slider. This pitch boasts over 15 inches of horizontal movement, consistently missing bats with a 50.7% whiff rate and a 18.2% hard-hit rate in 2025.
McCambley's arsenal also includes a cutter and a fastball that consistently sits at 94 mph, occasionally reaching 96 mph. His versatility is a bonus, as he has a starter's background and has successfully pitched in the bullpen.
"He's got a starter background, but he's also adaptable," says Phillies director of professional scouting Mike Ondo. "He can log innings, pitch short, whatever the team needs. Our goal is to utilize his strengths against right-handed hitters, where we believe he can make a significant impact."
If McCambley doesn't make the Opening Day roster, he'll be placed on waivers, and if he clears, the Phillies must offer him back to the Marlins, per Rule 5 regulations. Despite the challenge, the Phillies are optimistic about his chances.
"He's in a unique position, as he has to make the club," says president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski. "But when we drafted him, we knew he had the potential to make the team."
The Phillies are taking a calculated risk with McCambley, and it could pay off handsomely. His ability to adapt, combined with his impressive performance against right-handed hitters, makes him a valuable asset. Will he make the Opening Day roster? Only time will tell, but the Phillies are certainly giving it their best shot.
