Philadelphia Phillies: Neftali Feliz completes comeback story

Normally, the news that a journeyman reliever is being called up to the majors would not be a big deal. It would fly under the radar, especially if that reliever had not appeared in a major league game since 2017. For the Philadelphia Phillies and Neftali Feliz, that return to the majors is newsworthy.

On Friday, Feliz saw his comeback journey reach its ultimate conclusion. He is back in the majors, heading to Philadelphia to shore up a bullpen that needs help.

Neftali Feliz gets second chance with Philadelphia Phillies

Feliz is remembered for his impressive run as the Rangers closer in 2010 and 2011. He was an All Star during the 2010 campaign, and was named the AL Rookie of the Year. With 74 saves under his belt, he appeared to be one of the bright young closers in the game.

But that was not enough for the Rangers. They made the ill-fated decision to convert him to the rotation, where he lasted 42.2 innings before needing Tommy John surgery. That marked the beginning of what would be a laundry list of arm issues, and while he found some success with the Pirates in 2016, was never able to recapture his previous form.

After a rough 2017 season, he had signed a minor league deal with the Diamondbacks, spending the year in Triple-A as he bounced between the rotation and the bullpen. From that point, his only appearances came in the Dominican Winter League before the Phillies took a chance.

Feliz justified the Phillies’ faith with his showing in Triple-A. He had posted a 1.26 ERA and a 0.977 WHiP in his 14.1 innings, striking out 23 batters with six walks while notching four saves. While he is not likely to appear in any high leverage situations immediately upon his activation, the Phillies ongoing closer issues could lead to a bigger role if he finds success.

Neftali Feliz is back in the majors. Given the questions in the Philadelphia Phillies bullpen, he could end up in an important role sooner rather than later.