The Philadelphia Phillies may trade three of their relief pitchers amid offseason plans following another playoff disappointment. Matt Strahm, Jose Alvarado and Tanner Banks are reportedly drawing interest from other teams. This comes after bullpen issues contributed to losses against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.
The Philadelphia Phillies are preparing for significant offseason adjustments after their third consecutive early playoff exit. In the National League Division Series, the team lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers, with late leads blown in two of the three games. Much of the focus has been on bolstering the bullpen to support closer Jhoan Duran, a First-Team All-MLB selection, but reports suggest the Phillies could also move existing players.
According to a report by Matt Gelb of The Athletic, teams have targeted the Phillies' left-handed relievers due to a thin free-agent market. Available options include Gregory Soto, Drew Pomeranz, Danny Coulombe and Hoby Milner. Gelb noted: "It’s why teams have targeted the Phillies. They have José Alvarado signed for $9 million in 2026, Matt Strahm for $7.5 million, and Tanner Banks projected by MLB Trade Rumors to make around $1 million in his first year of salary arbitration."
Alvarado's trade potential stems from his 2025 PED suspension and a subsequent injury, raising questions about his role. Strahm has delivered above-average stats but showed volatility, including a three-run, go-ahead home run allowed to Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez in Game 1. Banks has performed well in early innings but struggled in higher-leverage situations later.
The Phillies' bullpen, including Strahm, Banks, Alvarado, Orion Kerkering, David Robertson and Jordan Romano, provided depth but faltered in key moments. With several players unsigned and other roster needs, the team aims to upgrade for a World Series push as their championship window narrows before the 2026 season. While no deals are confirmed, these developments signal potential changes.