In the world of baseball, the bullpen can often be the unsung hero of a successful playoff run. The Philadelphia Phillies are banking on this strategy to finally push them over the postseason finish line. After a couple of near misses, they've revamped their bullpen with a mix of fresh faces and strategic trades.
This offseason, the Phillies made headlines by signing Brad Keller to a two-year, $22 million deal, while trading Matt Strahm to the Kansas City Royals. But it's not just the big names making waves.
Enter Kyle Backhus, a lefty who might just be the secret weapon the Phillies need. With one of the lowest arm angles in MLB-clocking in at just nine degrees-Backhus offers a change of pace that's as deceptive as it is effective.
Pair him with the high arm angles of fellow left-handers Jose Alvarado and Tanner Banks, and you've got a bullpen that can keep hitters guessing all day long.
The Phillies' bullpen for 2026 is shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with. Jhoan Duran is locked in as the closer, his triple-digit fastball serving as a formidable weapon. Meanwhile, Keller, Alvarado, Banks, Orion Kerkering, Jonathan Bowlan, and Backhus are all expected to provide reliable relief.
Kerkering, in particular, is one to watch. After a tough end to the 2025 season, he's poised for a comeback.
The Phillies are betting that this revamped bullpen can finally deliver the postseason success they've been chasing. It’s a strategy grounded in the belief that a strong bullpen isn’t just an asset-it’s a necessity for championship glory.