Phillies Acquire Jhoan Duran: Luxury Reinforcement for the Bullpen
The Philadelphia Phillies have finalized the acquisition of Jhoan Duran, one of the most outstanding relievers in baseball, from the Minnesota Twins. The operation, which seeks to strengthen the team’s bullpen, involved a considerable cost for the Phillies. In return, the Twins received catcher Eduardo Tait, considered a high-caliber prospect, and pitcher Mick Abel, who is in his rookie season. These players, according to reports, are ranked in prominent positions within the Phillies’ prospect rankings. Duran, known for his powerful fastball that averages 100.2 mph and his curveball, is recognized as one of the most dominant closers in the game. With this acquisition, the Phillies’ management, led by David Dombrowski, seeks to address one of the team’s biggest weaknesses.The Phillies, boasting a solid rotation and an offense led by figures like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, have struggled in their bullpen. Instability in the closer position has been evident, with several players accumulating blown saves. The arrival of Duran represents a short and medium-term solution, given his contractual control until after the 2027 season. The team seeks to consolidate its position in the league and aim for the highest.We got a dominant closer at a high price, two good players, but something we believe makes sense given our current situation.
David Dombrowski
The move was announced during Wednesday’s game against the White Sox, where the Phillies suffered a defeat that left them half a game behind the New York Mets at the top of the National League East Division. Duran is expected to join the team before Friday’s game against Detroit. As for the transferred players, Tait bats .251 with 11 home runs for Clearwater in Class A. Abel, for his part, was the Phillies’ first pick in the 2020 draft and made his Major League debut this season.He’s one of the best closers in baseball, and we’ve turned the bullpen into a really good bullpen, in my opinion.
Rob Thomson, Phillies Manager
