Phillies Make Major Bullpen Upgrades with Key Acquisitions
The Philadelphia Phillies have taken aggressive steps to strengthen their bullpen, securing top-tier relievers in a series of bold moves. After a season where their relief pitching was inconsistent, the front office made significant adjustments, bringing in proven closers to solidify the back end of their pitching staff.
Jordan Romano Joins the Phillies
One of the most notable acquisitions was the signing of former Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano. The Phillies inked Romano to a one-year, $7.75 million deal in December 2024, a move aimed at reinforcing the bullpen with an experienced closer. Romano, 31, had been a dominant presence in Toronto before injuries slowed him down in 2024. Despite undergoing elbow surgery in July, he had previously established himself as one of the league’s premier closers, recording 36 saves in both 2022 and 2023 while earning All-Star honors.
Philadelphia is betting on Romano’s ability to bounce back and reclaim his dominant form. If he can return to his peak, he has the potential to be the shutdown closer the Phillies need to make a deep postseason run.
Phillies Land Carlos Estévez in a Midseason Trade
Before Romano’s arrival, the Phillies also made a splash by acquiring Carlos Estévez from the Los Angeles Angels at the trade deadline in July 2024. The deal, which sent pitching prospects Sam Aldegheri and George Klassen to the Angels, brought an experienced closer to Philadelphia. Estévez made an immediate impact, pitching 21 innings with a 2.57 ERA, 18 strikeouts, and six saves in 20 appearances for the Phillies.
However, Estévez’s time in Philadelphia was short-lived. After the 2024 season, he hit free agency and later signed a two-year, $22 million deal with the Kansas City Royals in January 2025. While his departure was a setback, it underscored the Phillies’ ongoing commitment to finding elite bullpen arms.
Phillies’ Bullpen Outlook for 2025
With Romano now anchoring the bullpen, the Phillies are in a stronger position heading into the 2025 season. If he can stay healthy, his presence could be the difference-maker in tight games. Combined with other bullpen arms, the Phillies have built a relief unit capable of competing at the highest level.
The moves Philadelphia has made show their intent to fix past bullpen struggles and put themselves in contention for a deep playoff run. The success of these acquisitions will be crucial in determining whether the team can take the next step toward a championship.