Phillies Promote Hard-Throwing Prospect With Amazing Name as Pat Neshek Hits IL
By Max Scoli
With Pat Neshek set to hit the injured list, the Philadelphia Phillies have called up a flame-throwing pitching prospect with the best name in sports: JD Hammer.
Nope, we're not making that up.
Hammer time. Phillies call up hard throwing JD Hammer. Pat Neshek to IL.
— Jim Salisbury (@JSalisburyNBCS) May 25, 2019
The combination of his awesome name, even better fastball and his thick set of glasses, Hammer could quickly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia.
He bears a striking resemblance to the "Wild Thing" from the movie 'Major League', a fitting comparison as both players are known for their speedy pitches and swagger.
Wild Thing!
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) May 25, 2019
JD Hammer called up by Phillies!
Pat Neshek goes on 10-day IL with a right shoulder strain.
David Robertson has been transferred to the 60-day IL. pic.twitter.com/UoruBO95Ez
Hammer was exceptional in the minor leagues this season. The reliever held a 1.77 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 20.1 innings in Double-A Ball before being called up to Triple-A on Tuesday. There, he appeared in a single game, allowing no runs and striking out three batters in two innings of work. This was enough for the Phillies to decide it is now Hammer-Time.
Another AFL reel for y'all: Here's #Phillies RHP J.D. Hammer. pic.twitter.com/lMwZMvyGzq
— Josh Norris (@jnorris427) October 24, 2017
Hammer has limited time to prove his worth while Neshek is out with a shoulder strain. He will need to make the most of this opportunity.