Sports · Baseball · 5 hrs ago
Phillies Expected to Seek Left-Handed Setup Reliever
The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to seek a left-handed setup reliever this offseason.
The new pitcher would help handle late innings before the ball goes to closer Jhoan Duran, one of baseball’s top relievers.
Philadelphia has several promising right-handed relievers, but its left-handed group is less dependable.
Tim Mayza is signed for another year, while Tanner Banks and Kyle Backhus had difficult seasons.
Several left-handed relievers are available this winter, including Alex Vesia, A.J. Minter and Sean Newcomb.
The Phillies could also consider top option Adrian Morejon, but he may seek a deal longer than the team has typically given to free-agent relievers.
The team is also considering another catcher to reduce J.T. Realmuto’s workload, but no signings beyond Mayza are reported.
The Phillies are expected to pursue a left-handed setup reliever this offseason.
The addition would help bridge the gap to closer Jhoan Duran, according to a report by The Athletic’s Matt Gelb.
Philadelphia has several right-handed options for late innings but fewer established left-handed relievers.
Tim Mayza has re-signed on a one-year deal, while Tanner Banks and Kyle Backhus had struggles in 2026.
Potential free-agent targets include Adrian Morejon, Alex Vesia, Steven Okert, A.J. Minter, Sean Newcomb and Brock Burke.
- Who
- The Philadelphia Phillies.
- What
- They are expected to seek a left-handed setup reliever to strengthen their bullpen.
- When
- This offseason. The report was published on November 4, 2026.
- Where
- Philadelphia.
- Why
- To help bridge the gap to closer Jhoan Duran and add depth to a left-handed relief group described as lacking.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Expected addition
- Left-handed setup reliever
- Closer
- Jhoan Duran
- Tim Mayza contract
- One year, $2.75 million
- Tanner Banks, 2026
- 6.19 ERA in 36 1/3 innings
- Kyle Backhus, MLB career
- 4.76 ERA in 45 1/3 innings