Call to the pen
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Philadelphia Phillies spinning their wheels until bullpen is fixed

By David Hill

Jun 10, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Hector Neris (50) wipes his brow during the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 10, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Hector Neris (50) wipes his brow during the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Philadelphia Phillies are clearly looking to win now. Between their moves at the trade deadline last year, and their actions in free agency, they are aware that their window to contend is open. They have a strong core with Bryce Harper, Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and J.T. Realmuto, with plenty of solid players to supplement the roster.

Despite that core, the Phillies have not gotten close to contending. Their 82-80 record in 2021 was their first winning season in a decade, which, coincidentally, marked the last time that the Phillies reached the postseason.

Philadelphia Phillies need to continue to address bullpen

While the Phillies have the pieces needed to contend, there remains one fatal flaw. The bullpen has been a disaster over the years, with the 2021 season their possible nadir. Phillies relievers set a franchise record for blown saves, and considering they were 6.5 games out of first in the NL East, it is safe to say that the bullpen cost them the postseason.

More Phillies. Knebel a major upgrade to bullpen. light

The Phillies have made moves to improve the bullpen. Jose Alvarado was brought over at the trade deadline last year. Corey Knebel signed a one year contract and is currently their closer. Hector Neris is in Houston, which may well be addition by subtraction when one looks at his history in Philadelphia.

But that is not enough. The Phillies need to continue to add to their bullpen once the lockout is over. Trading for Craig Kimbrel to handle the ninth inning would be a drastic upgrade, taking care of a position that has been a problem spot for years. Even then, the Phillies would still need another middle reliever or two in order to truly contend for a playoff berth.

It is clear that the Phillies recognize their Achilles’ Heel. They have certainly done what they can to improve their relief corps, both in a push for the postseason last year and again this offseason. But there is still more to do.

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The Philadelphia Phillies are hoping to contend for a playoff berth in 2022. However, until they truly fix their bullpen, they will be mired in mediocrity.

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