July 29 -- HAPP RECALLED

WASHINGTON -- As expected, the Phillies have recalled left-handed pitcher J.A. Happ from Class AAA Lehigh Valley to replace demoted right-hander Adam Eaton. Happ is expected to be available to pitch out of the bullpen tonight against the Nationals.

The move appeared imminent Sunday when Happ was removed prematurely from a start despite throwing only 41 pitches in 2-2/3 innings and was seen receiving congratulatory handshakes from teammates. Eaton agreed Monday to a minor-league assignment, opening a roster spot for Happ.

Happ, 25, has been a starter throughout his career, but he likely will be used in the bullpen. The Phillies have been looking for a second left-handed reliever to pair with J.C. Romero, and they still could make a deal before Thursday's 4 p.m. nonwaiver trade deadline.

In 20 games (19 starts) for Lehigh Valley, Happ is 7-6 with a 3.30 ERA and 127 strikeouts. Lefties are batting .242 against him, while right-handed hitters are batting only .227.
Happ also made two starts for the Phillies earlier this month and went 0-0 with a 3.27 ERA. He allowed eight hits, walked eight and struck out eight in 11 innings against the Mets on July 4 and the Cardinals on July 9.

"He could be a long guy [out of the bullpen]," Pat Gillick said yesterday. "It would be a new ball of wax for him. He has to kind of learn what he needs to get ready. It's a little bit of a role change."

Back in a bit with some pregame notes.