The Philadelphia Phillies face a critical need for bullpen reinforcements following the offseason departures of Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Esteves, compounded by the 80-game suspension of Jose Alvarado. ESPN's Jeff Passan emphasizes the bullpen as the team's most pressing issue, citing a dismal performance, with Orion Kerkering being the only reliever maintaining a sub-3.00 ERA. To address this glaring weakness, the Phillies have been linked to Washington Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan as a viable trade target.

Finnegan, who has a contract through the 2025 season at a manageable $6 million, boasts a solid 2.61 ERA and has 16 saves so far this season. His consistent track record makes him an appealing option for a Phillies bullpen that desperately needs improvement. Passan suggests that acquiring Finnegan could significantly bolster the team’s relief pitching and enhance their postseason prospects.