Phillies acquire RHP Erich Uelmen from Cubs

The Philadelphia Phillies acquired pitcher Erich Uelmen from the Chicago Cubs, who had designated the right-hander for assignment to open a roster spot for Drew Smyly. The Cubs will receive cash considerations in the deal formally completed on Wednesday. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski announced the corresponding move to open a spot on the 40-man roster, designating right-hander Vinny Nittoli for assignment. Uelmen was a fourth-round pick in 2017 and manager David Ross praised his sinker-slider combination in spring training last year. The 26-year-old was designated for assignment on Christmas Eve when the Cubs officially re-signed Smyly. Uelmen made his MLB debut last season against the Phillies, allowing a pinch-hit ninth-inning home run to Darick Hall in Chicago's 15-2 victory. He was called up in July and posted a record of 2-1 with one save, 21 strikeouts, 12 walks and a 4.67 ERA in 25 relief appearances over 27 innings. --Field Level Media