Weston Wilson may not have had many opportunities during his two-week stint in the big leagues, but he certainly made the most of the ones he did.
From his first time at bat, the 28-year-old made an impact. Called up by the Phillies on Aug. 6 and making his major-league debut on Aug. 9, Wilson launched a no-doubt home run in his first plate appearance to kick off an unforgettable night at Citizens Bank Park. In his handful of chances, the right-handed hitter showed off his skill — some pop, a good eye and some baserunning ability.
But with Brandon Marsh back healthy, Philadelphia optioned Wilson back to Triple-A Lehigh Valley after Sunday’s Little League Classic. He played in only four games for the Phillies, but went 2-for-6 with an impressive five walks and a stolen base. Now, he can return to the IronPigs and continue a stellar season that started well before his notable first look in the bigs.
Joining the Phillies organization this year, Wilson spent the 2023 season in Lehigh Valley prior to his call-up. After a strong spring, he separated himself as a utility man with a reliable bat and some speed in a career year in the minors. Wilson eclipsed the 20-homer, 20-steal threshold for the IronPigs, hitting 25 homers and stealing 23 bases in 100 Triple-A games — both professional career highs. That type of production is what allowed him to see some time in the majors when the Phillies were in need of help.
Wilson, slashing .260/.361/.524 in the minors, will rejoin an IronPigs team firmly in the race to make the International League postseason. At 28-16, Lehigh Valley entered Monday in first place in the IL East for the second half, 0.5 games above Durham for a playoff spot. Wilson’s talent making its way back into the lineup should be a boost as the IronPigs push for that berth down the stretch. With newly added big-league experience, he has the chance to help his team reach that milestone, while also rounding out his most successful season to date.