The Philadelphia Phillies faced a significant collapse this postseason, leaving fans eager for changes in the offseason.
The Philadelphia Phillies entered the 2024 postseason with sky-high expectations. For the first time since 2011, they captured the NL East title, ending the Braves’ eight-year reign. They also set a record for the most pitchers selected to a single All-Star Game and led the league in total All-Star selections. With stars like Bryce Harper and Zack Wheeler, the team seemed primed for a World Series run.
However, their season came to an abrupt end when Francisco Lindor hit a grand slam in Game 4 of the NLDS, eliminating the Phillies.
As the offseason approaches, Philadelphia’s front office may consider making adjustments, with three players set to enter free agency—none of whom may return next year.
3. RHP Spencer Turnbull won’t be back in Philadelphia in 2025
The first player on this list is more predictable than the following two. He missed most of last season due to a right lat strain, highlighting that he’s not essential to the Phillies’ success. They’ve proven they can win without him, and they will likely do the same next year.
That player is right-handed reliever Spencer Turnbull, who will enter unrestricted free agency after spending the latter part of the 2024 season on the injured list.
In 2024, Turnbull made 17 appearances, including seven starts, pitching 54.1 innings. He posted a career-high 9.6 K/9 and a career-low 6.1 H/9. When healthy, he was a reliable option for the team.
However, Turnbull doesn’t have a long history of sustained success, with a 4.55 ERA over his first five MLB seasons. Given that he’s unlikely to maintain his sub-3.00 ERA from this year, the Phillies are likely to let him walk. While he’s not a bad pitcher, the team will seek a better fit for their roster.
2. RHP Jeff Hoffman played himself out of Philly’s price range this season
The Phillies’ bullpen has performed exceptionally well toward the end of the season, with veteran right-hander Jeff Hoffman standing out as one of the key contributors.
Hoffman, 31, has made 122 appearances over two seasons with the Phillies, posting a 2.28 ERA, 2.54 FIP, and a 0.94 WHIP. His consistency and reliability in high-pressure situations have been invaluable for Rob Thomson and the team. In 2024, he earned his first All-Star selection.
However, Hoffman is set to become a free agent this offseason, and given his stellar performance, he may have priced himself out of the Phillies’ budget.
While I strongly believe the Phillies should prioritize re-signing Hoffman, as he’s been outstanding for them, it may be difficult for them to meet his market value while also addressing other needs, like upgrading their outfield and starting rotation. There’s a chance he stays with the team, but he could also be too costly for them to retain.
1. RHP Carlos Estevez will land with the highest bidder this offseason
Carlos Estevez was acquired by the Phillies at this season’s trade deadline from the Los Angeles Angels, who were selling off players. He gave Philadelphia a reliable, hard-throwing option at the back of their bullpen.
Estevez regularly hits 100 MPH with his fastball and has been difficult for hitters to square up. However, he was responsible for the pitch that Francisco Lindor hit, ending the Phillies’ season.
Despite that one pitch, Estevez has been outstanding overall and has likely positioned himself for a significant contract this offseason. He doesn’t have any particular loyalty to the Phillies, so he’ll probably sign with whichever team offers the most money. Given all the needs Philly has to address this offseason, they may not have the funds to match a high offer.
That said, I believe the Phillies should make an effort to re-sign him. Estevez is a valuable arm and would be a strong asset moving forward. But, after giving up the season-ending homer, some fans might not be eager to see him return.
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