Former Phillies All-Star Is Turning Heads in Minors Amid RP Need
Former Phillies All-Star Is Turning Heads in Minors Amid RP Need originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Philadelphia Phillies have weathered the storm following the Jose Alvarado suspension, surging up the standings with an NL-leading 36-20 record.
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But if Philadelphia wants to make it back to the World Series in 2025, there's a good chance they'll still need more bullpen help.
So, how about a move for a former Phillies All-Star closer with postseason experience?
Former MLB All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2023.Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
On May 30, The Athletic's MLB insider Ken Rosenthal called attention to long-time major league closer and nine-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel for his minor league performance so far this year.
"Anyone interested in a potential Hall of Fame reliever?" Rosenthal joked. Adding: "Right-hander Craig Kimbrel has a 1.54 ERA and is averaging better than a strikeout per inning at Triple A."
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Kimbrel's stellar start was enough to catch the eye of Rosenthal. But how long will it be before he compels an MLB team to make him an offer?
According to Rosenthal, "Kimbrel's minor-league contract with the Atlanta Braves includes a rolling opt-out. [Meaning] If a club offers him a major-league job, the Braves must promote him to their roster or let him go."
So, at the very least, the Phillies could force the Braves' hand on promoting Kimbrel.
The veteran closer's last stint on a major league roster came with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024. He was eventually released in late September after finishing with an ERA of 5.33.
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Kimbrel has had his fair share of good years and bad throughout his long MLB career. But he's only two seasons removed from the All-Star campaign in Philadelphia.
After starting his career with the Braves and four All-Star appearances, Kimbrel pitched for the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Phillies and Orioles.
He won a World Series with the Red Sox in 2018, along with three more All-Star nods during that stretch in Boston.
Related: Phillies Star Bryce Harper Announces Injury Update on Friday
Related: Phillies Urged to Make Bold Move for Three-Time MVP Mike Trout
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
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