Phillies released OF-1B John Bowker.

Bowker is headed to Japan, where he's found a more substantial contract and a better shot at regular playing time. The 28-year-old batted .133/.188/.167 across 32 plate appearances last season for the Pirates and Phils.

Phillies acquired OF-1B John Bowker from the Pirates for a player to be named later or cash considerations.

Bowker will join the Phillies on Wednesday and is eligible for the postseason roster. While the 28-year-old has enjoyed plenty of success in the minor leagues, he has an underwhelming .237/.289/.390 batting line over 609 major league plate appearances. He'll audition as a lefty bench bat during the month of September.

According to Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com, the Phillies have acquired outfielder John Bowker from the Pirates.