It's not much hyperbole to say Waldrep's two-start debut in 2024 was an unmitigated disaster. He struck out 3 guys, walked 8, and gave up 3 home runs in 7 innings, which was good (?) enough for a 16.71 ERA. The former first-round pick looked anything but. 2025, however, has been much better over 30 innings. While the 0.90 ERA is certainly not sustainable, he's now striking out more than he's walking, and he's been able to avoid the long ball.
Philadelphia Phillies starter Jesus Luzardo had been steaming since the second batter of the game, when Juan Soto was granted time late. Luzardo followed through with his delivery, which ended with his arms extended in exasperation as he walked toward the home plate umpire, Willie Traynor. Luzardo's early frustration was justified. He eventually walked Soto on an eight-pitch at-bat. Only one of his pitches a 97.5 mph four-seam fastball that rode high and inside was a ball.