Harper talks deadline moves, Phillies explain decision to release Gregorius

The Phillies released Didi Gregorius on Thursday. (Cheryl Pursell)Before Thursday’s game, the Phillies reinstated Jean Segura from the 60-day injured list. To make room for Segura on the roster, Didi Gregorius was released.

Gregorius is the third veteran the Phillies have cut in as many days following the trade deadline. The Phillies will pay him around $5 million to not play.

“We have a long history, going back to the Yankees,” interim manager Rob Thomson said. “A lot of really good times. A lot of playoff games. Ups and downs. I have a lot of respect for him. He’s been a really good player for a long time. Unfortunately, at his point, with [Segura] coming back, Stott is going to be our…