Travis

Phelps

Phelps, released by the Rays last week, will be a reliever for Triple-A Richmond.

Phelps, bothered by shoulder tendinitis in spring training, pitched Thursday and gave up five hits and three runs in two-thirds of an inning. To make room for him, the Brewers released pitcher Matt Parker.

Phelps gave up six runs in four innigns for the Brewers last month. He’ll again work in middle relief.

Phelps gave up six runs in four innings during his 12 days with the Brewers. He might not be brought back next month.

Phelps was definitely one of the more interesting minor league free-agent pitchers available, but it’s still unexpected to see him get a major league contract. The 26-year-old former Devil Ray spent last season with Atlanta’s Triple-A club and had a 3.47 ERA in eight starts and 39 relief appearances. He struck out 91 and gave up 77 hits and 38 walks in 93 1/3 IP. The Brewers will give him every opportunity to make next year’s squad as a reliever.

Phelps is a candidate for a rotation spot, but he’s more likely to make the Brewers as a middle reliever. There’s not much chance of him having any fantasy value.

Phelps allowed five runs -- three earned -- and three homers in six innings this spring. He probably would have stuck around longer had he not recently developed some shoulder soreness.

Phelps was given a major league deal by the Brewers in October, but shoulder tendinitis limited him during spring training and he failed to make the team. He’s now off the 40-man roster.

Phelps was supposed to have a bullpen spot, but he had fallen out of favor recently. He’ll sign a Triple-A contract with another team.