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Phillies eyeing pair of Twins pitcher at trade deadline amid bullpen struggles

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Original Story by The Sporting News
July 13, 2025
Phillies eyeing pair of Twins pitcher at trade deadline amid bullpen struggles

The Philadelphia Phillies' bullpen took a major hit when Jose Alvarado received a PED suspension. They could be targeting relievers at the trade deadline.

The Phillies' bullpen has the seventh-worst ERA in baseball at 4.40. They need a closer, but any additions to the bullpen would likely help their team. According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, they are scouting a pair of Minnesota Twins pitchers.

"The Philadelphia Phillies have been extensively scouting Minnesota Twins relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins, hoping to acquire at least one of them," wrote Nightengale.

Durán would be an elite addition for the Phillies. He has a 1.49 ERA and 15 saves on the season. He could step in as the closer, armed with an elite four-seamer and splitter. Opponents are also hitting just .175 against his knuckle curveball. He is under club control through 2027 and is projected to earn a $62 million deal in free agency.

Jax may not have the same impact that Durán would, but he could also be a solid addition. He has a 4.02 ERA this year in 43 games. However, last season he had a 2.03 ERA in 72 outings. From 2022 to 2024, he had a 3.06 ERA in 208 games. He is also under club control through 2027 and is projected to earn a five-year, $70 million deal in free agency.

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The Phillies likely sense some urgency in adding to the bullpen. They are in a tight race with the New York Mets in the National League East, and their current bullpen is not going to be good enough.

More MLB: Cubs top prospect breaks silence on swirling trade rumors

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