To remain competitive, every contending team must have an elite bullpen, a critical component the Philadelphia Phillies currently lack. While their bullpen performed as an above-average unit throughout the 2024 season, it faced its share of struggles. With key relievers like Carlos Estevez and Jeff Hoffman potentially departing in free agency, the Phillies may need significant reinforcements heading into the 2025 season.
There is growing optimism that the Phillies will actively spend this offseason. Although they are unlikely to shell out $400 million-plus mega-contracts, there is widespread belief that they are prepared to sign impactful free agents. The team’s most pressing needs include upgrading their bullpen and securing an offensive-minded outfielder. If Estevez and Hoffman both leave, addressing the bullpen will become an even higher priority. At a minimum, the Phillies will need to replace at least one of these key contributors.
One standout reliever the Phillies could pursue is left-hander Tanner Scott. A sought-after arm during the trade deadline, Scott was linked to the Phillies before the team ultimately acquired Estevez instead. With Scott now available in free agency, the Phillies have an opportunity to secure his services without sacrificing valuable trade assets. According to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, the Phillies are a strong fit for Scott, and Bowden has predicted that the team will sign him to a four-year, $60 million deal.
“The Phillies lost two key relievers, Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez, to free agency and now are looking to add a high-leverage bullpen arm,” Bowden explained. “Although they’d prefer to land a right-handed closer, it would be better to just get the best free-agent closer, which is Scott, who was worth 4.0 WAR last season with Miami and San Diego. He logged a 1.75 ERA over 72 appearances with 84 strikeouts in 72 innings.”
A $60 million contract for a reliever may seem steep, particularly given the mixed track record of high-priced bullpen acquisitions in recent years. However, Scott’s performance suggests he has the potential to remain elite for the foreseeable future. In 2024, he delivered a phenomenal season, posting a 1.75 ERA, an impressive 252 ERA+, and a 2.92 FIP while striking out 84 batters over 72 innings. This was no fluke, as Scott also excelled in 2023, recording 104 strikeouts across 78 innings.
Given his sustained success and dominant stuff, Scott could be argued to have been the best reliever in Major League Baseball last season. Despite the high price tag, he would bring tremendous value to the Phillies’ bullpen, providing stability and a high-leverage option capable of excelling in crucial moments. For a team aiming to build upon its recent successes and compete for a championship, signing a proven closer like Scott may be a worthwhile investment.
