The Phillies still have the highest bullpen ERA in the majors with a 7.02 ERA. To pad their bullpen, the Phillies add David Phelps.
The 8-year veteran is in the midst of a great season with the Brewers. In 13 IP, Phelps has posted a 2.77 ERA. He’s also been striking out hitters at a great 13.8 K/9 clip. That’s 20 K in his 13 innings.
Sabermetrics also smile favorably on Phelps. He tops the league in exit velocity, limiting hitters to 80.4 MPH on contact. He also sits in the top 10% of the league in strikeout % (41.7%, 98th percentile), hard-hit % (24%, 95th percentile), and expected batting average against (.186, 92nd percentile).
Since 2016, Phelps has posted a 2.85 ERA with a 11K/9 strikeout rate. This year he has also dominated the opposition’s best hitters.
He also gives manager Joe Girardi a player he is familiar with. David Phelps started his career with the Yankees from 2012-2014.
In return, the Phillies will be sending 3 low-level prospects. With the rules in 2020, they will be listed as PTBNL as only 60-man roster members can be traded.
Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire
