Nicholas Nelson: Everything you need to know

The Hanshin Tigers of Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball signed Nelson to a one-year, $1 million contract Thursday, Beverly Hills Sports Council reports. After appearing in 47 games for the Phillies in 2022, Nelson made a total of just five appearances with the big club over the last two seasons and was outrighted of their 40-man roster in September. The 29-year-old decided it was time for him to apply his trade overseas.

The Phillies outrighted Nelson to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Wednesday. Nelson was previously outrighted off the 40-man roster last month, so he could elect free agency if he wants. He could otherwise stick around the organization as relief depth.

The Phillies designated Nelson for assignment Saturday. Nelson's contract was selected Wednesday, and he threw two innings of relief Friday against the Marlins, yielding one run on two hits and two walks with three Ks. The 28-year-old logged a 6.85 ERA across 46 innings at Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season.