The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly exploring a trade that could bolster their bullpen, possibly bringing in Milwaukee Brewers’ shutdown reliever. With the Phillies needing to reinforce their bullpen after losing key arms Carlos Estevez and Jeff Hoffman to free agency, Williams—one of baseball’s top closers—has become a prime trade target. While the Brewers declined Williams’ $10.5 million club option, he remains under team control, with Spotrac projecting his 2025 salary at $8.4 million.
The Phillies’ bullpen inconsistencies were evident last season, posting a 3.94 ERA, ranking 14th in MLB, and blowing 19 of 56 save opportunities. Williams, however, has been among the league’s most dominant relievers, compiling a 1.70 ERA and 7.6 WAR since 2020, second only to Emmanuel Clase among relievers. Despite an injury-shortened 2024 season where he pitched just 21 2/3 innings, Williams was lights-out, achieving a 1.25 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Brewers may consider moving Williams in a cost-saving measure. The potential deal would involve Phillies’ second baseman Bryson Stott, whose solid defensive skills have earned him consecutive Gold Glove Award nominations. In 426 games since his 2022 debut, Stott has notched a .695 OPS, proving himself valuable both at bat and in the infield.
Phillies’ president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski hinted at being “open-minded” to player trades to strengthen the team, suggesting a willingness to trade established players for new talent. For the Phillies, adding a proven closer like Williams could address the inconsistency in their bullpen and give them a stronger edge in high-stakes situations next season.
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