The Phillies’ bids for cheap pitchers failed.
When it comes to bolstering their pitching staff, the Philadelphia Phillies would like to break their current run.
Sure, the Phillies were able to sign Aaron Nola to a new seven-year deal worth more than $170 million. Yes, the Phillies plan to extend Zack Wheeler, and he appears open to the idea.
However, adding depth to the bullpen has proven challenging.
According to USA Today, the Phillies swung and missed on three relievers, which may have given them more choices heading into spring training. According to the magazine, the Phillies made bids on three relievers: Jakob Junis, Jordan Hicks, and Robert Stephenson.
Junis signed a two-year contract with the Brewers. That contract reportedly included a $7 million guarantee, $4 million of which would be paid out this season. Junis may have sensed an opportunity to be a starter again in Milwaukee after spending a couple of seasons in San Francisco alternating between the rotation and the bullpen.
Junis inked a two-year deal with the Brewers. That contract reportedly featured a $7 million guarantee, with $4 million to be paid out this season. Junis may have seen an opportunity to return to the starting lineup in Milwaukee after alternating between the rotation and the bullpen in San Francisco.
Closer will be a significant competition in spring training, and Hicks could have aided the Phillies there if he had not wanted to start. During spring training, José Alvarado, Seranthony Domínguez, Gregory Soto, and Orion Kerkering are expected to take turns closing games.
