Former Braves Top Prospect Lucas Sims Signs with Phillies in Surprising Twist

Once viewed as a future star in the Braves’ rotation, former first-round pick Lucas Sims is now headed to one of Atlanta’s fiercest rivals—the Philadelphia Phillies. Sims, a Georgia native and Brookwood High School standout, was drafted by Atlanta in 2012 with hopes that he would become a staple in their pitching staff for years to come. Early in his career, he showed flashes of promise, but control issues and inconsistent performance made it hard for him to stick in a starting role.

As the Braves’ farm system continued to produce elite pitching talent, Sims was gradually pushed out of the rotation picture and eventually transitioned to the bullpen. Despite his struggles, he carved out a respectable, if uneven, role with the Cincinnati Reds, where he spent several seasons as a reliever. However, injuries and performance dips derailed his progress, leaving him without a team entering the 2024 season.

Now, in a surprising move that could add extra drama to an already intense NL East rivalry, Sims has signed a minor league deal with the Phillies. The move comes shortly after Philadelphia lost reliever José Alvarado to a drug suspension, leaving a vacancy in their bullpen. For Sims, it’s a shot at redemption—and possibly revenge against the team that once let him go.

Lucas Sims

While it’s unclear how soon Sims could make an appearance at the major league level, his experience and familiarity with NL East hitters could make him a useful asset if he can regain form. Phillies fans are hopeful he can tap into his former potential, while Braves fans might be watching uneasily if Sims comes back to haunt them from the other side of the rivalry.

Regardless of how it plays out, the signing marks a full-circle moment in Sims’ career—one that started with high expectations in Atlanta and now sees him fighting for a comeback with their most heated division opponent.