South Jersey Native Breaks Phillies Record In MLB Debut

ATLANTA — Tyler Phillips spent his childhood rooting for the Phillies. Now, he's in the team's record book.

Phillips, a South Jersey native, made his big-league debut for the Phils on Sunday, taking the mound in relief against the Braves. He struck out seven, breaking the franchise record for the most strikeouts of any Phillies pitcher making their MLB debut in a relief outing.

The right-hander allowed one run and three hits in four innings — a bright for the Phillies in their 6-0 loss.

"Unreal," Phillips told reporters, according to MLB.com. "I don't know what to say. I couldn't have drawn it up any better."

Phillips, 26, was born in Lumberton and graduated from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken. At Bishop Eustace, he pitched alongside future Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen.

The Rangers selected Phillips in the 16th round of the 2015 MLB Draft. In 2021, the Phillies claimed him off waivers.

Phillips began the season with the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The Phillies placed him on the 40-man roster Friday and promoted him to the majors for the first time.

The record that Phillips broke had stood since April 18, 1901, when Bill Duggleby struck out six in his Major League debut.

Phillips's family attended Sunday's game, including his 3-year-old son, Frank.

"He was crying after the game," Phillips told reporters. "I was hoping it was happy tears, but he was really just scared of the (Braves') mascot, he said. I think he will remember it. I know he's excited to be here."

The majors are filled with South Jersey greatness. Angels outfielder Mike Trout, of Millville, is a three-time American League MVP. Phillies slugger Bryce Harper lives in Haddonfield during baseball season and recently helped a local teen with his "promposal."