Jun 9, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies infielder Otto Kemp (4) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run agianst the Chicago Cubs in the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images Kyle Ross

Otto Kemp went undrafted out of Point Loma Nazarene University in California. He signed a free-agent contract with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2022 and improbably made the major leagues just three years later.

Kemp had been waiting a while. A lifetime for his major-league debut, Saturday in Pittsburgh. Perhaps just as long to lay down a good bunt.

Bryce Harper's injury has sidelined him. This gives Otto Kemp a chance to shine for the Philadelphia Phillies. Kemp, recently promoted, will play first base. Alec Bohm will return to third base. Kemp's performance will be closely watched.

Brandon Marsh singled home the winning run in the 11th inning after the Philadelphia Phillies used two bunt hits to load the bases and beat the Chicago Cubs 4-3.

Kemp says getting the major league call-up “caught me by surprise.” His wife, Lily, his brother, and parents are all in attendance on Saturday.

Carson DeMartini is quickly ascending the Phillies' minor-league system, following the footsteps of other promising prospects.