Tommy

Phelps

The chances aren’t good that Phelps will be around long enough to pick up a win, so he’s not worth using, especially in Great American.

“I think he gets another start and, if he does well, I might keep him in there,” McKeon said of Phelps. With Redman due back from the disabled list, perhaps as early as Wednesday, McKeon must decide which starter to remove from a mix that includes Phelps, 21-year-old rookie Dontrelle Willis and left-hander Michael Tejera. Phelps or Tejera likely would return to the bullpen. Willis, strictly a starter, could be optioned back to the minors for further polishing.

Phelps moves from the bullpen into the rotation, joining, for now, Brad Penny, Carl Pavano, Dontrelle Willis, and Michael Tejera until Mark Redman and Josh Beckett return.

Phelps began the season with the Marlins, only to be sent down when Burnett came off the DL for the first time. He’s not a useful player.

Phelps has been adequate filling in for the Marlins but he isn’t a good bet against Texas.

Phelps is expected to be activated on Monday.

''I’ve been pitching in pain all year,’' Phelps said. He will miss 6-8 weeks and begin rehab at Single-A Jupiter.

Phelps will now help make up for the absence of Tim Spooneybarger. He had a 5.67 ERA in seven starts for the Marlins.

Phelps underwent elbow surgery after being sent down to the minors in June and has struggled to make it back. He’ll probably stay in the organization once he clears waivers.

Two of the three players the Marlins designated for assignment managed to clear waivers. Phelps could opt for free agency.