The Philadelphia Phillies enter Wednesday’s matchup against the Miami Marlins with a 43–30 record. While manager Rob Thomson is focused on winning now, the team’s ultimate aim is a deep postseason run.
However, a recent suspension for reliever José Alvarado has complicated those plans. With the MLB trade deadline just over a month away, Philadelphia is expected to target bullpen help to stay competitive. Two pitchers reportedly on their radar are Kyle Finnegan and Jake Bird.
Bird has been a rare bright spot for a struggling Colorado Rockies team. The 29-year-old has posted a 2.23 ERA over 40 1/3 innings this season, a notable feat given that he pitches half his games at hitter-friendly Coors Field.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Bird would not only help the Phillies this year but could be a longer-term asset, as he remains under team control for three more seasons after 2025.
Finnegan, meanwhile, offers a profile similar to that of Jordan Romano. The 33-year-old made an All-Star appearance in 2024 and has continued to perform well, logging 18 saves and a 3.21 ERA heading into Wednesday’s game against Colorado. With the Washington Nationals out of the playoff picture, Finnegan has become a sought-after trade target.
With Alvarado sidelined, Thomson has leaned on Taijuan Walker—normally a starter—as his most reliable bullpen option. Walker has posted a 3.54 ERA but only has one hold to his name in relief. Despite these bullpen concerns and some internal drama, the Phillies remain one of the top teams in baseball.
Philadelphia is locked in a race with the New York Mets atop the NL East, with both clubs eager to rebound from underwhelming playoff finishes in 2024. Adding Finnegan or Bird could provide the bullpen boost the Phillies need to realize their championship aspirations.
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