Phillies Enhance Bullpen by Signing Brad Keller to 2-Year Deal
The Philadelphia Phillies have bolstered their bullpen by signing Brad Keller to a two-year deal worth $22 million. The announcement came on Wednesday, marking a significant addition for the team as they strive to enhance their pitching lineup.
Brad Keller’s Impact on the Phillies’ Bullpen
Keller, a right-handed reliever, had a remarkable 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs. Initially signed on a minor-league contract, he transformed into a prominent player, including postseason appearances. His role as a primary setup man will support closer Jhoan Duran, enhancing the team’s late-inning performance.
Performance Overview
In 2025, Keller achieved an impressive average fastball velocity of 97.2 mph, a significant increase from his previous seasons. He ranked 43rd among 147 qualified relievers, showcasing a 27.2 percent strikeout rate and a solid 26.9 percent whiff rate, which is above league average for relievers.
- Strikeout Rate: 27.2%
- Whiff Rate: 26.9%
- Average Fastball Velocity: 97.2 mph
- ERA: 2.07
This performance came after a transformation that began during his time with the Boston Red Sox, where he refined his delivery. His repertoire includes a four-seam fastball that he utilized 42.6 percent of the time and secondary pitches that contributed to his high strikeout and ground-ball rates.
Strategic Signing and Future Considerations
Keller’s signing is noteworthy as it is the first multi-year contract for an external free agent that the Phillies have made since December 2022. This decision indicates the organization’s commitment to improving their bullpen, which previously ranked 29th in MLB for whiff rate
With the addition of Keller, the Phillies now have a robust bullpen featuring four hard-throwing relievers, including:
- Jhoan Duran – 100.6 mph average
- José Alvarado – 99.1 mph average
- Orion Kerkering – 97.5 mph average
- Brad Keller – 97.2 mph average
The Phillies have also been exploring trades involving their left-handed relievers, creating questions about their bullpen configuration. They are likely to continue adjusting their roster as they seek a balance between performance and payroll management.
Financial Implications
Keller’s salary of $11 million per year is a notable investment for the Phillies, especially as they look to maintain flexibility in their payroll. Currently, the team’s payroll stands around $308 million. If they pursue a reunion with catcher J.T. Realmuto, costs could rise significantly. The potential trade of lefty reliever Matt Strahm could further alleviate payroll constraints.
As the Phillies prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Keller positions them to compete more effectively in high-pressure situations. His history of performance in clutch moments, including several saves during the postseason, exemplifies the kind of reliable presence the team needs.
With Keller now in the fold, the Phillies aim to solidify their bullpen, addressing past shortcomings and enhancing their prospects for success in the 2026 season and beyond.
