As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are searching for a crucial addition to address their bullpen issues. With Jordan Romano Phillies bullpen struggles becoming increasingly apparent and the postseason quickly approaching, the team requires a dependable reliever to stabilize late-inning pitching.
ESPN baseball insider Jeff Passan suggests that Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase represents an ideal candidate to bolster the Phillies’ relief corps. Clase’s team control to 2028 and manageable contract reportedly make him the most appealing trade target in this bullpen overhaul effort.
Clase’s Performance and Contract Make Him an Attractive Option
Despite a slight decline from his stellar 2024 season, Emmanuel Clase remains a top-tier closer whose presence would significantly upgrade Philadelphia’s bullpen. Last year, Clase posted an outstanding 0.61 ERA over 74.1 innings, combined with 47 saves and a WHIP of 0.659. His 2024 dominance positioned him as a Cy Young contender with elite closing skills.
In the current campaign, Clase’s numbers have dipped, including a 3.12 ERA and 1.289 WHIP through 40.1 innings, yet these still pale in comparison to the struggles suffered by Jordan Romano, whose ERA has ballooned to 7.44. Clase’s availability comes with team control through 2028 and a total salary commitment of $26 million over the next three seasons, which aligns well with the Phillies’ strategy for sustained competitiveness.
Urgency for a Reliable Closer Intensifies for Phillies
The Phillies’ bullpen performance remains a glaring weakness, especially with Jose Alvarado’s postseason suspension removing another key arm from contention. Romano’s disappointing outings have heightened the urgency for the Phillies to secure a reliable closer capable of finishing games effectively as the playoffs near.
General Manager Chris Dombrowski faces increasing pressure to act swiftly, given Philadelphia’s roster chronology and trial-and-error approach in recent seasons. Adding Clase, a three-time All-Star and discounted but proven relief ace, would provide stability and reinforce the Phillies’ hopes of making a deep postseason run before their competitive window narrows further.
Trade Moves and Prospects Weigh into Phillies’ Bullpen Strategy
While talk about landing another Cardinals All-Star reliever for two prospects has circulated, Philadelphia’s primary focus remains on shoring up its own bullpen with an established closer rather than relying solely on unproven arms. At the same time, former management opinions suggest holding onto top prospects like Mick Abel unless a blockbuster trade emerges, signaling the team’s cautious approach to balancing present needs and future assets.
With postseason contention on the line, the Phillies’ ability to add Clase or a similar caliber reliever could be the difference between an early exit and a competitive championship pursuit.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Jordan Romano?
A. On July 3, 2024, he had arthroscopic surgery to fix an impingement in his throwing elbow, which sidelined him for six weeks.