Transactions: Asche’s back, Lough is out
The Phillies have announced that outfielder Cody Asche has been activated from the disabled list while David Lough will be designated for assignment. Asche suffered an oblique strain during spring training which has sidelined him nearly all season. The Phillies have 10 days to trade, release, or outright Lough. If he clears the outright waivers he will have the option to reject the assignment and elect to become a free agent.
In his rehab assignments with Clearwater, Reading and Lehigh Valley Asche hit .169 with six extra base hits (four home runs), and 19 strikeouts over 15 total games.
Outfield production has been lacking for the Phillies, besides Odubel Herrera, who is hitting .319. Tyler Goeddel has improved, raising his average up to .255, but the outfield production still has considerable room for improvement in order for this team to compete at the highest level.
Asche has consistently hit in the .230 -.240 range with below-average power. This will be a big test for the former third baseman, as he needs to prove himself while outfield prospects like Nick Williams and Roman Quinn continue to progress quickly in the minor leagues.
In 30 big league games this year, the 30-year-old Lough posted a .239 average with three doubles, a triple and four RBI.
