Phillies Power Move: Addressing 2024’s Critical Flaws for a Strong 2025
The Philadelphia Phillies have taken bold steps this offseason to fix the key issues that held them back in 2024. With strategic acquisitions in both pitching and hitting, the team is determined to make a deep postseason run in 2025. The biggest improvements came in the starting rotation, bullpen, and outfield defense, areas that were weaknesses last season.
Starting Rotation Reinforcement
One of the Phillies’ most significant offseason moves was acquiring left-handed pitcher Jesús Luzardo from the Miami Marlins. Luzardo, 27, is a power pitcher with strong strikeout potential. In a recent Spring Training outing, he struck out six batters over four innings, allowing just one run in a dominant 12-1 victory against a Baltimore Orioles split squad. This addition strengthens a rotation that struggled at times in 2024, particularly with Taijuan Walker’s inconsistency. Luzardo will likely join Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, and Cristopher Sánchez in the starting five, giving the Phillies a more formidable group on the mound.
Bullpen Upgrades
The Phillies also made moves to reinforce their bullpen, which saw the departures of key relievers Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez to free agency. The biggest bullpen signing was Jordan Romano, the former Blue Jays closer. Romano, 32, is coming off an injury-plagued 2024 season but has a proven track record, successfully converting 97 of 109 save opportunities from 2020 to 2023. The Phillies signed him to a one-year, $8.5 million deal, hoping he can regain his dominant form. His presence, along with José Alvarado, will provide much-needed late-inning stability.
Outfield Depth and Defensive Adjustments
Another critical flaw from 2024 was outfield defense, especially in left field. To address this, the Phillies signed veteran Max Kepler to a one-year, $10 million contract. Kepler, a 10-year veteran with the Minnesota Twins, is known for his strong defensive play and solid left-handed bat. His addition allows Kyle Schwarber to primarily focus on designated hitter duties, reducing his defensive liabilities in left field. With Bryce Harper settling into first base, the Phillies’ defensive alignment is now much stronger than last season.
Spring Training Standouts
Spring Training performances have already showcased promising signs for the 2025 season. Left-handed reliever José Alvarado has been dominant, pitching nine scoreless innings with 20 strikeouts while allowing just three hits and three walks. Alec Bohm and Max Kepler have also impressed at the plate, while prospect Gabriel Rincones Jr. is gaining attention for his potential impact.
Looking Ahead
With these improvements, the Phillies have addressed their most pressing weaknesses from 2024. Their rotation is deeper, the bullpen has a reliable closer, and outfield defense is stronger. These moves position the team for success, with hopes of challenging the Atlanta Braves in the NL East and making a deep playoff push. If their new additions perform as expected, 2025 could be the year the Phillies finally break through and capture a World Series title.