For the second time in two days, the Phillies have added some potential, late-season punch to the roster.
According to a report first published by MLB.com, the Phillies have agreed to a minor-league contract with right-handed pitcher Dave Bush after he opted out of a deal with the Chicago Cubs.
The deal with the Phillies is contingent on Bush passing a physical. After that, Bush will report to Triple A Lehigh Valley.
Bush, a Conestoga High grad and Berwyn, Pa. native, went 0-1 with a 5.79 ERA in 17 games for the Texas Rangers this season. The right-hander was designated for assignment consequently released in July before signing a minor-league deal with the Cubs.
Following six starts for Triple A Iowa where he went 1-2 with a 6.14 ERA, Bush asked out of his contract with the Cubs in order to become a free agent.
In addition to his local ties, Bush has had a bit of success against the Phillies during his career. While pitching for the Brewers, Bush notched the only win for his team against the Phillies in the 2008 NLDS, giving up a run and five hits in the Game 3 victory at Miller Park.
Bush also carried a no-hitter into the eighth inning of a game at Citizens Bank Park in April of 2009 while pitching for the Brewers. Matt Stairs wrecked the no-hit bid with a home run in the eighth inning, but Bush took the win, surrendering just two hits over 7 23 innings.
MLB
Bush likely will join left-handed slugger Jack Cust at Lehigh Valley this week. Cust was signed on Friday to a minor-league deal after being released by Seattle on Aug. 4. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Cust could be a pinch-hitting home run threat for the stretch run.
E-mail John R. Finger at jfinger@comcastsportsnet.com