We know the Phillies are pursuing the top free-agent lefty relievers, Zach Britton and Andrew Miller.
They're also looking for creative ways to boost the bullpen.
According to Jayson Stark, the Phillies pursued starting pitcher Nate Eovaldi as a closer before the right-hander re-signed with the Red Sox.
With a big fastball and a history of trouble staying healthy for a full season, Eovaldi does make sense as a closer. He thrived as a reliever in the World Series, finishing one game and allowing one earned run in eight innings.
The Phillies, as you're well aware, have two hard-throwing righties of their own who could one day fit better in the back of end the bullpen: Nick Pivetta and Vince Velasquez. Pivetta will most likely get another full season to try to put it all together, while Velasquez's opportunities may have run out. If the Phillies add an experienced, mid-rotation starter this offseason, Vinny Velo would likely be the odd man out.
If/when that happens, Velasquez could give the Phillies another option toward the end of games. That is, unless the Phils use him in a trade that brings back help in other areas of the roster. Alone, Velasquez or Cesar Hernandez might not bring back a good player. But what if you package them together, a la J.P. Crawford and Carlos Santana?
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Matt Harvey and Lance Lynn are two other free-agent starters who have had trouble staying healthy and consistently pitching past the fifth inning. Both could make sense as late-inning relief options this winter as well.
For some borderline starting pitchers, a move to the ‘pen can be a career-changer. It sure was for Andrew Miller. Bud Norris has also turned his career around as a reliever the last two seasons after fizzling out as a starter.
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